CAST Animal Agriculture Symposium considers need for collaboration

CAST Animal Agriculture Symposium considers need for collaboration

By Agri-Pulse Staff

© Copyright Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc.

Washington, June 9 – An expert panel at the CAST Food-Animal Agriculture Symposium Wednesday focused on the need for a collaborative vision for America’s scientific, technological and agricultural future.

National Farmers Union (NFU) Vice President of Government Relations Chandler Goule explained that “The key to success is coexistence. In order for this to be achieved, agricultural organizations must realize there is a place for everyone at the table.”

Panelists pointed out that as negotiations for the 2012 Farm Bill approach, with the prospect of decreased funding, collaboration in the agricultural community has never been more important. They shared the view that conventional or organic, small or large, U.S. farmers and ranchers should work together so all of agriculture can benefit from farm bill programs.

“End-users and consumers need to know about U.S. agriculture and how food arrives at their table,” Goule said. “Their knowledge and awareness is the key to success for farmers and ranchers across the nation.”

Discussion focused on the fact that agricultural communities have changed significantly. In the 1950s, 15 percent of the population was tied to the family farm within one generation. In more contemporary times, most consumers have no direct connection to farming so that to create a unified vision for the future of America’s scientific, technological and agricultural future, it is critical that all organizations and the general public come together.

“U.S. farmers and ranchers work every day to provide a safe, reliable food source,” Goule added. “As an industry, there is a need for increased collaboration and a breakdown in divisions across the board. We must find the common ground and talk to legislators, consumers and the media about what we are doing to promote good health and being mindful of the environment.”

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