What's Happening?
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Randy Romanski participated in the 2026 Winter Policy Conference held in Washington, DC from February 2 to 4. The conference, organized by the National Association of State Departments
of Agriculture (NASDA), brought together commissioners, secretaries, and directors of agriculture from across the nation to discuss policy and business matters. Romanski, who is also the President of the Midwestern Association of State Departments of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing issues such as international trade, animal health, and food safety. The conference identified five top policy priorities for 2026, including agricultural labor reform, animal disease preparedness, the farm bill, pesticide regulations, and regional food procurement. Additionally, the event recognized the International Year of the Woman Farmer, highlighting the significant role of women in agriculture.
Why It's Important?
The participation of Wisconsin in the NASDA Winter Policy Conference underscores the state's commitment to addressing critical agricultural issues on a national level. The conference's focus on topics such as agricultural labor reform and animal disease preparedness is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and safety of the U.S. agriculture industry. By engaging in these discussions, Wisconsin aims to influence policy decisions that could impact farmers and agricultural stakeholders across the country. The recognition of the International Year of the Woman Farmer also highlights the growing acknowledgment of women's contributions to agriculture, which could lead to more inclusive policies and support for female farmers.
What's Next?
Following the conference, NASDA members will work on implementing the approved policy amendments and action items. These include support for state-inspected meat programs and the development of national action plans for animal diseases. Wisconsin will continue to play a role in these efforts, with Romanski coordinating a regional meeting in Madison, Wisconsin, later this year. The outcomes of these discussions could lead to significant changes in agricultural policies and practices, benefiting farmers and consumers alike.
Beyond the Headlines
The conference's emphasis on the International Year of the Woman Farmer may lead to increased support and resources for women in agriculture, potentially inspiring more women to pursue careers in this field. This could result in a more diverse and resilient agricultural workforce, capable of addressing the challenges of modern farming. Additionally, the involvement of students in the NASDA Next Generation program highlights the importance of nurturing future leaders in agriculture, ensuring that the industry continues to innovate and adapt to changing conditions.
