In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, staying informed about federal policies and regulations is crucial for farmers, legal professionals, and industry stakeholders. This year, two prominent congressional staffers will provide valuable insights into the latest developments from Capitol Hill at upcoming agricultural law conferences. Fitzhugh Elder IV, Republican staff director for the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Clark Ogilvie, special counsel for the Democratic staff of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, will lead the “Update from the Potomac” panels at the 12th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference and the 3rd Annual Western Water, Agricultural, and Environmental Law Conference.
These conferences, hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation (NASDA Foundation), offer a unique opportunity for attendees to gain firsthand knowledge from individuals deeply involved in shaping agricultural policy. The sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including the Farm Bill, agricultural trade, environmental regulations, and public lands management. The Mid-South conference will focus on farm bill updates, agricultural trade, EPA regulations, and related federal issues, while the Western conference will delve into farm bill updates, public lands, and related issues.
The interactive nature of these sessions allows attendees to engage directly with the panelists, asking questions and seeking clarification on complex topics. This direct line of communication is invaluable for those looking to navigate the intricacies of federal agriculture policy. Both Elder and Ogilvie bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, having been involved in key discussions that shape the agricultural landscape. Their insights will help attendees better understand and anticipate policy shifts that could impact their operations, legal practices, and businesses.
For those unable to attend in person, both conferences offer a livestream option, ensuring that a broader audience can benefit from the expertise shared. Registration for the conferences is available online through the NALC website, and both programs offer continuing legal education credit, including ethics, as well as continuing education from the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
The importance of these conferences cannot be overstated. As Elder noted, decisions made in Washington, D.C., have far-reaching implications for the nation’s agricultural community. Whether it’s federal lands in the West or trade markets affecting farmers across the South, these issues are complex and evolve rapidly. Ogilvie echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to assess the current state of U.S. agriculture and what lies ahead. The sessions will provide a comprehensive overview of what has transpired so far and what might be on the horizon for key federal issues.
As the agricultural sector continues to face challenges and opportunities, staying informed and engaged is essential. These conferences offer a platform for learning, networking, and gaining a deeper understanding of the policies that shape the industry. For anyone involved in agricultural law and policy, including producers, students, and industry professionals, these conferences are a must-attend event.