The hearing was focused on identifying various ways that agriculture could contribute to a reduction in the emissions of greenhouse gases while helping farmers “maintain and increase their profitability.” In the current low-price environment, any contribution that changes in agricultural practices can make to the bottom line through reducing costs and increasing income is a positive for farmers.

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Important signup deadlines for U.S Department of Agriculture risk management programs are approaching. The deadline to enroll in the Dairy Market Coverage program for 2020 is Dec. 13. Producers can sign up for the program at county Farm Service Agency offices and all dairy producers are eligible. DMC is a voluntary risk-management program that offers financial protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all milk price and the average feed cost — the margin — falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. Implemented as part of the 2018 farm bill, the program replaces the Margin Protection Program for Dairy.

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When she’s not being a livestock and grain farmer, a mom, a grandma or the president of the Illinois Pork Producers Association, Pam Janssen can be found at her sewing machine. “That’s my sanity. That’s my go-to when I say, ‘OK, everybody, leave me alone. I just need peace and quiet and my sewing machine,’” Janssen said. The mother of three and grandmother of two stepped into a whirlwind when she took over as president of the Illinois Pork Producers Association almost a year ago.

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