The landscape of agricultural research and technology is evolving rapidly, influencing everything from pesticide regulation to trade agreements. This transformation was the focal point of a recent hearing held by the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, where Harrison Pittman, Director of the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC), shared insights on the pressing issues facing the agricultural sector. The event took place on August 15 at the Grand Farm Innovation Campus in Wheatland, North Dakota, and featured an array of experts, including senators and industry leaders.
Pittman’s testimony underscored the NALC’s mission as a vital resource for agricultural and food law research. He emphasized how the center has adapted to meet the growing complexities of agricultural law over the years. “The function that we were originally created for continues today, but the issues have grown and they have expanded in so many different ways,” he stated. One of the most significant changes he noted was in pesticide registration, an area that has become increasingly challenging. “If ever there were good ole days in pesticide registration, I think they’ve ended,” he remarked, indicating a long-term trend toward more stringent regulations.
During the session, Senator John Hoeven sought Pittman’s input on trade, a topic he identified as crucial for the agricultural industry’s future. Pittman’s response was clear: “More.” He articulated the ongoing need for robust trade agreements, despite the difficulties in establishing multi-country deals. “It’s obvious that it’s a key part of the long-term economic viability of the ag industry in the United States,” he added, emphasizing that trade will remain a top priority regardless of the political landscape.
Pittman’s insights were echoed by other panelists, including Greg Tehven of Grand Farm and leaders from North Dakota State University and the American Soybean Association. The discussion highlighted the collaborative nature of agricultural research and the importance of partnerships in navigating the evolving landscape. Senator Boozman acknowledged Pittman’s expertise, particularly regarding the legal implications of emerging agricultural technologies.
The hearing also featured a separate panel with officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small and Chief Scientist Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young. They praised the NALC’s contributions to the agricultural community and the critical role it plays in disseminating information. Torres Small pointed out the importance of the partnership between the USDA and NALC, especially in light of recent Supreme Court decisions that may affect USDA’s regulatory capabilities. “Working with the NALC is going to be fundamental to identifying how to respond and make sure that our decisions are appropriate and defensible in courts of law,” she explained.
The emphasis on legal education and its relevance to the future of agriculture was a recurring theme. Torres Small noted that many students and farmers are increasingly interested in agricultural law, recognizing its importance in the sector. She highlighted that resources like the NALC are essential for training not just future lawyers but also the next generation of farmers who need to navigate the legal complexities of their industry.
The discussions at the hearing reflect a broader recognition of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the agricultural sector. As technology continues to advance and regulatory landscapes shift, the need for informed legal guidance and strategic trade policies becomes ever more critical. The NALC’s role as a leading source of agricultural law research is poised to be pivotal in helping stakeholders adapt and thrive in this dynamic environment.