The Assembly Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on SB 31 on Wednesday, May 7^th.  Nevada Farm Bureau was one of the groups testifying in opposition to the bill.

“We are opposing SB 31 on the basis that we believe that the federal government is being granted unfair preference,” Nevada Farm Bureau lobbyist Doug Busselman said.  “We have argued that since the State of Nevada can’t appear to hold federal agencies to account  for the December 31, 2027 deadline, Nevada should protect its own citizens and move the deadline to a later date, giving the same consideration that is being give to federal agencies.”

There was an amendment offered for the bill from Eureka County sought clarification for a couple of unclear matters, including a provision which would provide for amendments of proofs of appropriation filed under the law at a later date and after the initial submitted information to meet the December 31, 2027, deadline.

Although not formally submitted or discussed there has been another amendment which would establish an interim legislative study for the purpose of working to resolve the ongoing issues that SB 31 raises when federal agencies are not required to meet the December 31, 2027, deadline.

The Division of Water Resources has not been willing to accept any of the proposed changes that have been brought forward to this point.

One of the major water bills that Nevada Farm Bureau has been working on this legislative session, AB 104 came before the Senate Natural Resources Committee on May 8^th.  A major emphasis on this bill deals with establishing a legislatively authorized program for the voluntary buy-back of water rights and retirement for those purchased water rights.  This is intended as a tool to assist in bringing over-appropriated and over-pumped groundwater basins back into balance.

Nevada Farm Bureau policy #313 supports a water right buyout/retirement program and the organization has been working with other water stakeholders in developing this consensus proposal for nearly two years.  Based on the policy and the nature of the legislation, Nevada Farm Bureau spoke in favor of passage in the Senate Natural Resources Committee hearing.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented Thursday, May 8th on the announced trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom.

“Farm Bureau appreciates the work between the administration and the United Kingdom to secure a new trade agreement. We have long advocated for new trade deals, and this is an important first step in expanding markets in the four countries. More work is needed, however, to remove the arbitrary barriers that have excluded American-grown food from grocery stores in the U.K.

“America’s farmers and ranchers grow the safest and most affordable food in the world. We’re encouraged by progress to create market opportunities for farmers. We urge the administration to build on this success to pursue more trade agreements, and resolve current disputes, so farmers can continue to feed families here at home and overseas.”

In his most recent Market Intel  report – “Agricultural Imports 101” American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Daniel Munch provided an overview of the reasons for why American agricultural international trade is now (and has been for the past couple of years) is in a trade imbalance.

“The U.S. agricultural import story isn’t one of weakness, it’s one of complexity, necessity and consumer choice.” Munch wrote in his conclusions, adding, “Imports provide Americans with year-round access to diverse products and supply farmers with critical inputs needed to stay productive. But strong import flows shouldn’t be mistaken for a lack of domestic capability.”

It might seem a little chilly right now for a night out at a baseball game, but we hope that you’ll make your plans now…so you don’t miss out.  We’re excited to invite you to a special evening at the ballpark! As a valued member of the Nevada Farm Bureau, you’re eligible for discounted tickets to the Reno Aces game at Greater Nevada Field on June 24th. The game will start at 6:35 p.m., and it’s sure to be a fun night out with family and friends!

Don’t miss this great opportunity to enjoy an exciting game at a fantastic price. Get your tickets now and come cheer on the Reno Aces with us!

For more details and to purchase tickets, please click here.