National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson personally delivered a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack on Wednesday that outlines many ideas USDA and Congress can use to address the ongoing dairy crisis. Johnson urged further action by USDA as shrinking demand and falling market prices are having a crippling impact on dairy farmers across the nation.
Johnson says Vilsack has been fully engaged and committed to America's dairy farmers since taking the oath of office and he appreciates the Secretary's willingness to meet and openly discuss the challenges and opportunities facing those in rural America. Johnson applauded the March announcement to disperse 200 million pounds of nonfat dry milk for domestic feeding programs and to release Milk Income Loss Contract program payments for dairy producers, but said more needs to be done.
Johnson also addressed the creation of a standing disaster program which was a top NFU farm bill priority. Johnson said it's inevitable that natural disasters will occur. He says Secretary Vilsack understands the devastating economic impact spreading throughout rural communities.
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