The upcoming 2025 Western Water, Ag, and Environmental Law Conference is set to be a pivotal event for stakeholders in the agricultural sector, particularly those operating in the Western U.S. Scheduled for June 19-20 at the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino in Reno, Nevada, this third annual gathering promises to provide a robust platform for discussions surrounding critical issues in water, agriculture, and environmental law. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream option will ensure broader accessibility.
This year’s conference will feature a significant session titled “Western Water, Ag, & Food: Perspectives from State Departments of Agriculture.” Moderated by Wes Ward, the Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture and the incoming president of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), the session will bring together leaders from various state agriculture departments. The panel includes Dr. J.J. Goicoechea, the newly appointed director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture; Christy Clark, director of the Montana Department of Agriculture; and Jeff Witte, who has served as the director of the New Mexico Department of Agriculture since 2011.
Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC), emphasized the importance of this gathering, stating, “The Western conference is a great networking and learning opportunity, focusing in a practical way on issues important to the ag industry in western states.” The involvement of top leadership from western state agriculture departments not only enhances the conference’s credibility but also provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with influential figures in agricultural policy.
The panelists will discuss how state agriculture departments engage with their stakeholders, including farmers, producers, and legal professionals. This interaction is crucial, especially as agricultural practices and regulations evolve in response to environmental challenges and changing market demands. The insights shared during this session are expected to be invaluable for attendees seeking to navigate the complexities of agricultural law and policy in their respective states.
In addition to the panel discussions, the conference will offer attendees the chance to earn continuing education credits, including those recognized by the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. This aspect of the conference underscores its commitment to professional development within the agricultural community, ensuring that participants leave with not only knowledge but also tangible credentials.
Registration for the Western Conference is set to open in January, and interested individuals are encouraged to stay updated through the NALC website and social media channels. This proactive approach to communication reflects the NALC’s dedication to fostering engagement within the agricultural community.
The implications of this conference extend beyond the event itself. As agricultural practices face increasing scrutiny from environmental regulations and water scarcity issues, the discussions held at this conference will likely influence future policies and practices in the Western U.S. The collaboration between state departments and industry stakeholders could lead to more cohesive strategies that address the pressing challenges facing agriculture today.
By facilitating dialogue among key players in the agricultural sector, the 2025 Western Water, Ag, and Environmental Law Conference aims to not only highlight existing issues but also to foster innovative solutions that could benefit the industry as a whole. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, events like this play a crucial role in shaping the future of farming and environmental stewardship in the region.