Farm Bill in Arizona

1. What is the Farm Bill and why is it important for Arizona’s agricultural community?

The Farm Bill is a comprehensive piece of legislation passed by the United States Congress approximately every five years that addresses various aspects of agriculture and food policy in the country. It covers a wide range of programs and policies related to farming, nutrition, conservation, rural development, and other related areas. The Farm Bill is crucial for Arizona’s agricultural community for several reasons:

1. Crop subsidies: The Farm Bill provides support to farmers through crop subsidies, price supports, and insurance programs. In Arizona, where agriculture is a significant part of the economy, these subsidies help mitigate risks associated with unpredictable weather conditions and market fluctuations.

2. Conservation programs: The Farm Bill includes provisions for conservation programs that help farmers in Arizona implement practices to protect natural resources and improve soil health. These programs are essential for sustainability and long-term viability of agricultural operations in the state.

3. Research and development: The Farm Bill allocates funding for research and development in agriculture, which is crucial for innovation and the adoption of new technologies in Arizona’s farming sector. This support helps farmers stay competitive and adapt to changing conditions.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a vital role in shaping the agricultural landscape in Arizona by providing crucial support, promoting sustainability, and facilitating growth and innovation within the industry.

2. How does the Farm Bill impact Arizona farmers, ranchers, and rural communities specifically?

The Farm Bill impacts Arizona farmers, ranchers, and rural communities in several ways:

1. Crop Insurance: The Farm Bill provides critical support for crop insurance programs that help protect farmers against losses due to natural disasters, pests, and other challenges. This is particularly important for Arizona farmers who face unique risks such as drought, heatwaves, and soil salinity.

2. Conservation Programs: The Farm Bill includes funding for conservation programs that help Arizona farmers implement sustainable practices, protect natural resources, and enhance biodiversity on their lands. These programs play a key role in preserving Arizona’s fragile ecosystems and ensuring the long-term viability of farming in the state.

3. Rural Development: The Farm Bill allocates resources for rural development projects that can benefit Arizona’s rural communities, such as infrastructure improvements, business development initiatives, and access to broadband internet. These investments help strengthen the economic resilience of rural areas and support the overall well-being of residents.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in supporting Arizona farmers, ranchers, and rural communities by providing financial assistance, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering economic development.

3. What are some key provisions of the Farm Bill that directly affect Arizona agriculture?

1. Crop insurance programs are a crucial provision of the Farm Bill that directly affect Arizona agriculture. These programs provide essential risk management tools for farmers in Arizona, helping to protect against crop yield and revenue losses due to natural disasters, such as drought or extreme weather events. Crop insurance can be especially beneficial for Arizona farmers who face challenges related to water scarcity and variable growing conditions.

2. Conservation programs within the Farm Bill also play a significant role in supporting Arizona agriculture. These programs provide financial incentives for farmers to implement conservation practices that help protect soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on their land. In Arizona, where sustainable water management and soil conservation are essential for agriculture, these programs can help farmers adopt practices that improve the long-term sustainability of their operations.

3. The Farm Bill’s funding for research and extension programs is another key provision that directly benefits Arizona agriculture. These programs support research projects and extension services that help farmers in Arizona access the latest scientific advancements and technology to improve their productivity, profitability, and sustainability. Research and extension programs funded through the Farm Bill can address specific challenges faced by Arizona farmers, such as developing drought-resistant crop varieties or implementing sustainable irrigation practices.

Overall, the Farm Bill contains a wide range of provisions that directly impact Arizona agriculture by providing support for risk management, conservation, research, and extension services. These provisions play a crucial role in helping farmers in Arizona navigate challenges related to climate, water resources, and market volatility, ultimately contributing to the long-term success and viability of agriculture in the state.

4. How does the Farm Bill address water usage and conservation in Arizona farming practices?

In Arizona, the Farm Bill addresses water usage and conservation in farming practices through various programs and initiatives. Here are some key ways in which the Farm Bill helps tackle these issues:

1. Conservation Programs: The Farm Bill provides funding for conservation programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). These programs offer financial and technical assistance to farmers to adopt conservation practices that help in reducing water usage, improving water quality, and enhancing overall sustainability.

2. Water Management Practices: The Farm Bill promotes the adoption of water-efficient irrigation practices and technologies through programs like the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP). By incentivizing farmers to implement water-saving measures, such as drip irrigation systems and soil moisture monitoring, the Farm Bill aims to reduce water usage in agriculture while maintaining crop productivity.

3. Research and Innovation: The Farm Bill supports research initiatives focused on water conservation and management in agriculture. By investing in research projects related to drought-resistant crops, water-efficient farming techniques, and sustainable water use, the Farm Bill contributes to the development of innovative solutions for addressing water challenges in Arizona farming practices.

4. Collaborative Partnerships: The Farm Bill encourages partnerships between agricultural producers, conservation organizations, and government agencies to collectively work towards advancing water conservation efforts in the state. By fostering collaboration and information sharing, the Farm Bill enhances coordination and effectiveness in addressing water usage and conservation issues in Arizona agriculture.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable water management practices and conservation efforts in Arizona farming, contributing to the long-term viability of agriculture in the state while safeguarding water resources for future generations.

5. What role does the Farm Bill play in supporting specialty crops grown in Arizona, such as citrus and cotton?

The Farm Bill plays a crucial role in supporting specialty crops grown in Arizona, such as citrus and cotton, through various provisions that address the specific needs of these crops.

1. Crop Insurance: The Farm Bill provides provisions for crop insurance programs that help protect specialty crop farmers in Arizona, like citrus and cotton producers, from financial losses due to natural disasters, pests, and market fluctuations. These insurance programs offer a safety net for farmers, ensuring that they can continue to grow these crops even in the face of unforeseen challenges.

2. Research and Development: The Farm Bill allocates funding for research and development programs that specifically target specialty crops, such as citrus and cotton. These programs support innovation in breeding, pest management, and sustainable farming practices, helping farmers in Arizona improve the quality and yield of their crops.

3. Market Access and Promotion: The Farm Bill includes provisions for promoting the marketing and export of specialty crops, which is essential for Arizona farmers who rely on export markets for their citrus and cotton products. These programs help farmers access new markets, increase demand for their products, and ultimately enhance the competitiveness of Arizona specialty crops in the global marketplace.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a critical role in supporting specialty crops grown in Arizona, like citrus and cotton, by providing essential resources and programs that help farmers overcome challenges, innovate, and thrive in the increasingly competitive agricultural industry.

6. How does the Farm Bill address challenges faced by small and beginning farmers in Arizona?

The Farm Bill addresses challenges faced by small and beginning farmers in Arizona in several key ways:

1. Access to Resources: The Farm Bill provides funding for programs that offer technical assistance, training, and resources specifically tailored to small and beginning farmers in Arizona. These programs help new farmers learn about sustainable practices, marketing strategies, and financial management to improve their chances of success in a competitive market.

2. Risk Management: Small and beginning farmers often face greater financial risks due to limited experience and resources. The Farm Bill includes provisions for risk management tools such as crop insurance and disaster assistance programs, which help protect farmers in Arizona against unexpected losses due to weather events, pests, or market fluctuations.

3. Conservation Practices: The Farm Bill incentivizes the adoption of conservation practices that benefit both the environment and the long-term viability of farms in Arizona. Small and beginning farmers can access funding and technical support to implement practices such as water conservation, soil health improvement, and wildlife habitat preservation, which can reduce operating costs and improve sustainability.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in supporting the growth and success of small and beginning farmers in Arizona by providing access to resources, risk management tools, and support for conservation practices tailored to their specific needs and challenges.

7. What conservation programs are available to Arizona farmers through the Farm Bill?

Arizona farmers have access to several conservation programs through the Farm Bill to support their efforts in land stewardship and environmental sustainability. Some key programs available include:

1. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): EQIP provides financial and technical assistance to help farmers implement conservation practices on their land, such as soil erosion control, water quality improvement, and wildlife habitat enhancement.

2. The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP): CSP offers payments to farmers who actively manage and maintain existing conservation practices and adopt additional ones on their farms. This program encourages comprehensive conservation planning and long-term sustainable land management.

3. The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): ACEP provides financial assistance to farmers to help them protect their agricultural lands and wetlands through conservation easements. This program helps ensure that valuable agricultural land remains in production and provides important natural habitats for wildlife.

4. The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP): While not exclusive to Arizona, the CRP allows farmers to voluntarily enroll environmentally sensitive land in long-term contracts, providing payments in exchange for maintaining conservation practices on the land. This program helps improve water quality, reduce soil erosion, and create wildlife habitat.

By participating in these and other Farm Bill conservation programs, Arizona farmers can effectively manage their land resources, protect natural ecosystems, and enhance the overall sustainability of their operations.

8. How does the Farm Bill support sustainable farming practices in Arizona?

The Farm Bill offers several provisions that support sustainable farming practices in Arizona. Firstly, the Farm Bill provides funding for conservation programs that help farmers implement sustainable practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and efficient water management. This financial assistance encourages farmers to adopt environmentally friendly methods that reduce soil erosion, conserve water resources, and minimize the use of harmful chemicals.

Secondly, the Farm Bill includes provisions for research and extension programs that focus on sustainable agriculture practices. These programs provide farmers in Arizona with access to the latest research and information on best practices for sustainable farming, helping them improve their operations and reduce their environmental impact.

Additionally, the Farm Bill supports local food systems and farmers markets, making it easier for sustainable farmers in Arizona to sell their products directly to consumers. By increasing market opportunities for sustainable producers, the Farm Bill helps to create a more resilient and diverse agricultural sector in the state.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable farming practices in Arizona by providing financial support, research and extension programs, and market opportunities for farmers who prioritize environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability.

9. What assistance does the Farm Bill provide for Arizona farmers during times of natural disasters or economic hardship?

The Farm Bill provides various forms of assistance for Arizona farmers during times of natural disasters or economic hardship. These assistance programs aim to support farmers in overcoming the challenges they face due to unforeseen circumstances. Some specific forms of assistance that the Farm Bill offers include:

1. Crop Insurance: The Farm Bill allocates resources for crop insurance programs that help farmers mitigate the financial risks associated with crop losses due to natural disasters such as droughts, floods, or storms.

2. Disaster Assistance Programs: The Farm Bill includes provisions for disaster assistance programs that provide emergency relief to farmers affected by natural disasters. These programs offer financial assistance to cover crop losses, livestock losses, and other damages resulting from natural disasters.

3. Conservation Programs: The Farm Bill also offers conservation programs that help farmers implement practices to improve soil health, water quality, and overall farm resilience. These programs can be especially beneficial during times of economic hardship when farmers need to enhance their efficiency and sustainability.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in supporting Arizona farmers during times of natural disasters or economic hardship by providing them with essential resources and assistance to navigate through challenging situations.

10. How is funding allocated under the Farm Bill to benefit Arizona farmers and ranchers?

Under the Farm Bill, funding is allocated to benefit Arizona farmers and ranchers through various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting their operations and promoting agricultural sustainability. Some ways funding is allocated include:

1. Crop Insurance Programs: Arizona farmers can receive financial assistance to help mitigate risks associated with natural disasters, crop failures, and market fluctuations through federal crop insurance programs established under the Farm Bill.

2. Conservation Programs: Funding is allocated to support Arizona farmers in implementing conservation practices on their land, such as improving soil health, water conservation, and wildlife habitat preservation. Programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) provide financial incentives for farmers to adopt sustainable practices.

3. Agricultural Research and Extension: Arizona farmers benefit from funding allocated for agricultural research and extension services that provide science-based solutions to improve crop yields, enhance livestock production, and address emerging challenges in agriculture. Universities and research institutions in Arizona receive grants and funding to support research projects under the Farm Bill.

4. Market Access Programs: Funding is allocated to help Arizona farmers and ranchers access domestic and international markets through programs like the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development Program (FMD). These programs provide resources to promote Arizona agricultural products and expand export opportunities.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in supporting Arizona farmers and ranchers by providing funding for a wide range of programs and initiatives that enhance agricultural production, sustainability, and market opportunities in the state.

11. What programs are available through the Farm Bill to help Arizona farmers access new markets and sell their products locally?

The Farm Bill offers various programs to help Arizona farmers access new markets and sell their products locally. Some of these programs include:

1. Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (FMLFPP): This program provides grants to farmers, ranchers, and other producers to help establish, expand, and promote local and regional food systems. It supports direct-to-consumer marketing strategies, such as farmers markets, farm stands, and community-supported agriculture programs.

2. Value-Added Producer Grant Program (VAPG): This program assists farmers and ranchers in adding value to their agricultural products to increase profitability. It offers grants for feasibility studies, business plans, and working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products.

3. Specialty Crop Block Grant Program: This program supports the competitiveness of specialty crops, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and nursery crops. Funding can be used for marketing, research, education, and promotion to enhance the competitiveness of Arizona’s specialty crop industry.

4. Rural Development Programs: Through various rural development programs, Arizona farmers can access funding for infrastructure improvements, such as cold storage facilities, processing facilities, and distribution networks. These investments help farmers better connect with local markets and meet consumer demand for locally grown products.

Overall, these programs under the Farm Bill aim to support Arizona farmers in expanding their market access and increasing sales of their products locally, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of the state’s agricultural industry.

12. How does the Farm Bill address food security and nutrition assistance programs in Arizona?

The Farm Bill plays a crucial role in addressing food security and nutrition assistance programs in Arizona by providing funding and support for key initiatives. Specifically, the Farm Bill encompasses various provisions that directly impact food security and nutrition assistance in the state:

1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): The Farm Bill allocates funding for SNAP, which is a vital program that helps low-income individuals and families in Arizona access nutritious food. SNAP benefits are essential in addressing food insecurity and ensuring individuals have access to the food they need to lead healthy lives.

2. Nutrition Education Programs: The Farm Bill also includes provisions for nutrition education programs, such as the SNAP-Ed program, which educates SNAP participants in Arizona about healthy eating habits and provides resources to support a balanced diet. These programs play a vital role in promoting nutrition and improving food security in the state.

3. Food Distribution Programs: Additionally, the Farm Bill supports food distribution programs that help provide access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations in Arizona, such as the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). These programs are essential in addressing food insecurity and ensuring individuals have access to essential food items.

Overall, the Farm Bill is instrumental in addressing food security and nutrition assistance programs in Arizona by providing funding and support for key initiatives that help improve access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations.

13. What are some recent changes or updates to the Farm Bill that impact Arizona agriculture?

1. One recent change to the Farm Bill that impacts Arizona agriculture is the inclusion of provisions that support crop insurance programs. These programs are crucial for Arizona farmers as they provide financial protection against losses due to natural disasters, pests, and market fluctuations.

2. Another update is the emphasis on conservation programs that promote sustainable farming practices in Arizona. These programs help farmers adopt practices that reduce soil erosion, conserve water, and protect wildlife habitats.

3. The latest Farm Bill also provides funding for research and development initiatives in Arizona agriculture. This includes support for innovative farming techniques, pest management solutions, and crop improvement strategies that can benefit Arizona farmers.

Overall, these recent changes to the Farm Bill play a significant role in supporting and enhancing the agricultural sector in Arizona by providing financial assistance, promoting sustainability, and encouraging innovation in farming practices.

14. How does the Farm Bill address issues related to labor and workforce challenges faced by Arizona farmers?

The Farm Bill addresses issues related to labor and workforce challenges faced by Arizona farmers through several key provisions:

1. H-2A Program: The Farm Bill includes provisions related to the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program, which allows farmers to hire foreign agricultural workers on a temporary basis when domestic labor is not available. These provisions focus on streamlining the application process, increasing the flexibility of the program, and addressing the labor needs of farmers in states like Arizona.

2. Training and Education Programs: The Farm Bill includes funding for training and education programs aimed at preparing the domestic workforce for agricultural jobs. These programs can help address labor shortages by providing resources and support to individuals interested in pursuing careers in agriculture.

3. Research and Innovation: The Farm Bill also supports research and innovation in agriculture, which can lead to the development of new technologies and practices that help farmers address labor challenges. For example, advancements in automation and mechanization can help offset labor shortages by increasing efficiency and reducing the need for manual labor.

4. Rural Development: The Farm Bill includes provisions for rural development that can indirectly impact labor and workforce challenges faced by Arizona farmers. By investing in rural infrastructure and economic development, the Farm Bill can help create job opportunities in rural communities, increasing the pool of available labor for agricultural operations.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a crucial role in addressing labor and workforce challenges faced by Arizona farmers by providing support for programs, research, and development initiatives that aim to improve labor availability, training, and efficiency in the agricultural sector.

15. What are some key differences in how the Farm Bill impacts different sectors of Arizona’s agriculture industry, such as livestock versus crops?

One key difference in how the Farm Bill impacts different sectors of Arizona’s agriculture industry, such as livestock versus crops, lies in the type of support each sector receives.

1. Livestock producers often benefit from programs within the Farm Bill that provide assistance for livestock disaster relief, livestock forage programs, and livestock risk management programs. These provisions are crucial for helping livestock producers recover from natural disasters, manage risks associated with raising livestock, and maintain healthy herds.

2. On the other hand, crop producers may benefit more from provisions in the Farm Bill that include crop insurance programs, commodity price support programs, conservation programs for cropland, and funding for research and development of new crop varieties. These programs help crop producers manage risks associated with weather fluctuations, market volatility, and maintain the sustainability of their crop production practices.

Overall, the Farm Bill impacts different sectors of Arizona’s agriculture industry in unique ways, with livestock producers benefiting from programs tailored to their specific needs, and crop producers benefiting from provisions that support crop production, conservation, and research.

16. How do commodity support programs in the Farm Bill benefit Arizona farmers?

Commodity support programs in the Farm Bill benefit Arizona farmers in several ways:

1. Price Stabilization: Commodity support programs help stabilize prices for agricultural products such as cotton, wheat, and dairy. This stability protects Arizona farmers from fluctuations in the market, ensuring a more predictable income stream.

2. Risk Management: These programs provide farmers with tools to manage risk associated with weather events, market volatility, and other uncertainties. This includes crop insurance programs that offer financial protection against losses due to natural disasters or price drops.

3. Income Support: The Farm Bill’s commodity support programs also provide direct payments or income support to farmers during periods of low prices or production, helping to ensure their financial viability.

4. Market Access: By supporting commodity prices and production, these programs help Arizona farmers remain competitive in the domestic and international markets. This access is essential for the state’s agricultural industry to thrive.

In summary, commodity support programs in the Farm Bill benefit Arizona farmers by stabilizing prices, managing risks, providing income support, and enhancing market access, all of which are essential for the success of the state’s agricultural sector.

17. How does the Farm Bill influence agricultural research and innovation in Arizona?

The Farm Bill plays a crucial role in influencing agricultural research and innovation in Arizona in several ways:

1. Funding: One of the significant impacts of the Farm Bill on agricultural research and innovation in Arizona is through the allocation of funding. The bill provides financial support for research and development initiatives that aim to improve agricultural practices, enhance crop yields, promote sustainability, and address challenges faced by farmers in the region.

2. Grant Programs: The Farm Bill establishes various grant programs that support research institutions, universities, and agricultural organizations in Arizona to undertake research projects focused on advancing innovation in agriculture. These grants enable scientists and researchers to explore new technologies, methods, and practices that can benefit the agricultural industry in the state.

3. Regulatory Framework: The Farm Bill also influences agricultural research and innovation in Arizona by setting the regulatory framework for the introduction of new technologies and biotechnologies in agriculture. Through provisions related to biotechnology, crop insurance, and conservation programs, the bill shapes the environment within which research and innovation can thrive in the state.

Overall, the Farm Bill plays a vital role in fostering agricultural research and innovation in Arizona by providing funding, grant programs, and establishing regulatory guidelines that support the development of new technologies and practices in the agricultural sector.

18. What are some success stories of Arizona farmers who have utilized resources from the Farm Bill to improve their operations?

Several Arizona farmers have successfully utilized resources from the Farm Bill to enhance and expand their operations. One notable success story is that of the Crooked Sky Farms in Phoenix, Arizona. By leveraging Farm Bill provisions such as crop insurance and conservation programs, Crooked Sky Farms was able to transition to organic farming practices, diversify their crops, and improve soil health on their land. As a result, they saw increased yields, reduced input costs, and improved resiliency against weather-related risks.

Another example is the Singh Farms, a family-owned farm in Scottsdale, Arizona, which utilized funding from the Farm Bill to invest in renewable energy infrastructure such as solar panels and energy-efficient irrigation systems. This not only reduced their reliance on traditional energy sources but also lowered their operating costs and improved overall sustainability practices.

Furthermore, the Farm Bill has supported various research and development projects in Arizona, leading to innovations in water management, pest control, and crop varieties that have benefited numerous farmers across the state. Overall, these success stories highlight the transformative impact of the Farm Bill in empowering Arizona farmers to modernize their operations, adopt sustainable practices, and thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.

19. How can Arizona farmers and ranchers stay informed and engaged in the Farm Bill process?

Arizona farmers and ranchers can stay informed and engaged in the Farm Bill process by taking the following steps:

1. Stay updated on relevant news and information by regularly visiting the official website of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the website of the House Committee on Agriculture. These platforms provide valuable resources on the Farm Bill process, including updates on proposed legislation, hearings, and opportunities for public input.

2. Participate in stakeholder meetings and listening sessions organized by agricultural organizations and advocacy groups in Arizona. These gatherings provide a forum for farmers and ranchers to share their perspectives and priorities with policymakers and other stakeholders involved in shaping the Farm Bill.

3. Engage with elected officials at the federal level by contacting their offices, attending town hall meetings, and participating in advocacy campaigns organized by agricultural associations. By voicing their concerns and preferences directly to policymakers, Arizona farmers and ranchers can influence the development of the Farm Bill and ensure that it adequately addresses their needs.

4. Collaborate with peer farmers and ranchers in Arizona through local agricultural groups and cooperatives to collectively advocate for provisions in the Farm Bill that support the interests of the state’s agricultural community. By working together, farmers and ranchers can amplify their voices and make a stronger impact on the legislative process.

Overall, by proactively staying informed, actively participating in the Farm Bill process, engaging with policymakers, and collaborating with fellow agricultural stakeholders, Arizona farmers and ranchers can effectively advocate for policies that benefit their industry and ensure their voices are heard during the development of this critical legislation.

20. What are the major priorities for Arizona’s agricultural community in the next Farm Bill reauthorization process?

In the next Farm Bill reauthorization process, Arizona’s agricultural community has several key priorities that they would like to see addressed to support their industry and sustainability. These priorities include:

1. Water Resource Management: Water scarcity is a significant issue for Arizona farmers. They are looking for provisions in the Farm Bill that support water conservation efforts, infrastructure improvements, and sustainable water management practices to ensure a reliable water supply for agriculture.

2. Crop Insurance and Risk Management: Arizona farmers are seeking improved crop insurance options that are tailored to the unique challenges they face, such as extreme temperatures and drought conditions. They are also looking for risk management tools that provide adequate protection against unforeseen events that can impact crop yields.

3. Trade and Market Access: Access to international markets is crucial for Arizona’s agriculture sector. Farmers are advocating for policies in the Farm Bill that promote fair trade agreements, market access opportunities, and export promotion programs to enhance competitiveness and increase market opportunities for their products.

4. Research and Innovation: Investments in agricultural research and innovation are essential for addressing challenges related to climate change, pest management, and crop production in Arizona. Farmers are calling for increased funding for research programs that support the development of new technologies and practices to improve productivity and sustainability.

5. Labor and Immigration Reform: The availability of a reliable workforce is critical for Arizona’s agriculture industry. Farmers are urging for measures in the Farm Bill that address labor shortages, streamline the guest worker program, and provide a pathway to legal status for immigrant workers to ensure a stable labor force for the sector.

Overall, Arizona’s agricultural community is looking for a Farm Bill that addresses their specific needs and challenges while promoting the long-term viability and growth of the state’s agriculture industry.