As June comes to a close, the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) has once again demonstrated its commitment to providing valuable research and information in the fields of agricultural and food law. Throughout the month, the NALC staff has been actively involved in various conferences, presentations, and webinars, ensuring that stakeholders across the country remain well-informed about the latest developments and legal considerations in agriculture.
One of the highlights of the month was the 11th Annual Mid-South Agricultural & Environmental Law Conference, which took place on June 6-7 at the University of Memphis in Memphis, TN. This event brought together legal experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to discuss pressing issues in agricultural and environmental law. Among the key topics covered were pesticide regulations, foreign ownership of agricultural land, and current trends in animal agriculture. Brigit Rollins, a staff attorney at NALC, delivered a joint presentation on pesticides, shedding light on the complexities of pesticide use and regulation.
Following closely on the heels of the Mid-South Conference, the NALC hosted the 2nd Annual Western Agricultural & Environmental Law Conference on June 13-14 at the University of Nevada, Reno. This event served as a platform for discussing the unique legal challenges faced by Western agricultural stakeholders. Center Director Harrison Pittman and Senior Staff Attorney Elizabeth Rumley both delivered in-person presentations at the conference. Pittman’s joint presentation on foreign ownership of agricultural land sparked significant interest, while Rumley’s insights into hot topics in animal agriculture provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of current issues in the field.
Elizabeth Rumley continued her outreach efforts with a presentation on June 22 at the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association in San Antonio, TX. Her talk focused on updates in the cattle and beef industries, as well as recent and forthcoming rules related to the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). This presentation was particularly timely, given the ongoing discussions about regulatory changes and their potential impact on the cattle industry.
Meanwhile, Senior Staff Attorney Rusty Rumley addressed the growing interest in agritourism with an in-person presentation on June 25 at the Frontline to Farm event in Boone, NC. Agritourism, which combines traditional agricultural activities with tourism, has been gaining traction as a way for farmers to diversify their income streams. Rumley’s presentation provided practical insights and legal considerations for those looking to venture into this burgeoning field.
In addition to these in-person events, the NALC also leveraged digital platforms to reach a wider audience. On June 27, Elizabeth Rumley delivered an online presentation on production contracts for the Indiana Ag Law Foundation via Zoom. This webinar highlighted the importance of understanding the legal nuances of production contracts, which are critical for managing relationships between producers and buyers in the agricultural supply chain.
Throughout June, the NALC staff’s efforts were recognized in various media mentions, underscoring the center’s role as a trusted source of information in agricultural law. Their work not only informs stakeholders but also shapes the legal landscape of agriculture, ensuring that the industry remains resilient and adaptable in the face of evolving challenges.
The NALC’s outreach and educational initiatives reflect its ongoing commitment to supporting the agricultural community. By providing timely and relevant legal information, the center helps stakeholders navigate the complexities of agricultural law, fostering a more informed and empowered industry. As the year progresses, the NALC will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in advancing the understanding and application of agricultural law across the United States.