2014 Resolutions

SUBSECTIONS:

C=Congressional (US)

L=Legislative (ID)

T=Tax (ID, US)

Trans=Transportation

Final: 11/15/13: Joseph Anderson, Chair

CONGRESSIONAL

 

Congressional Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the re-licensing of all power generating dams in the Pacific Northwest,

• planting flexibility provisions including fair and open trade,
• federal disaster assistance programs provided they are not funded by farm bill baseline funding,  
• land exchange between private, state, and federal entities on a site specific basis,
• keeping fair market exchange of foreign grain without the use of artificial barriers,
• all levels of government in using sound scientific data when making public health and environmental decisions that could also affect crop viability,
• legal action to enforce existing US laws prohibiting the importation of food products on which chemicals are used that are not registered in the US,
• beginning young farmer programs,
• Food Aid (PL480) programs that endorse exchange of the physical commodity and not currency,
• maintaining the Nutrition Title in the Farm Bill and proportional cuts across all titles.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• a reduction in USDA farm payment limitations,
• reductions in funding of current Farm Bill programs, unless equitable reductions are made to all federal programs,
• tying conservation compliance requirements to crop insurance,
• adding “means testing” using a $750,000 Adjusted Gross Income level to determine if producers can receive federal crop insurance premium subsidies,
• EPA and Idaho Department of Environmental Quality regulation of fugitive dust emissions derived from normal agriculture practices.

 

Resolution No C1 – Guest Workers

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports a guest worker program that secures the borders of the United States and provides a legal, affordable, and stable workforce for agriculture.

 

Resolution No C2 – Farm Bill Reauthorization

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will work actively with NAWG, NBGA, and other industry groups to advocate for federal farm programs that provide an adequate safety net for Idaho wheat and barley farmers.

Supporting Statement

Idaho wheat and barley farmers believe that federal farm programs should provide for a crop insurance program that protects both irrigated and dry land operations, that does not recouple payments to production, provides a more localized revenue-based program, and provides robust authority for the Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Access Program (MAP) trade programs.

 

Resolution No C3 – Emergency Waiver for Agricultural Disasters

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports that emergency waiver authority be given to the U.S. Department of Agriculture in special cases where administrative error disqualifies counties otherwise eligible for federal agriculture disaster designation.

 

Resolution No C4 – Alcohol Beverage Regulation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes legislation that would compromise existing federal authority over taxation, product composition, labeling, and advertising of alcoholic beverages in the U.S.

Supporting Statement

Public policy initiatives that impact volume and growth may ultimately disrupt purchases and the supply chain for malt barley producers. The IGPA is concerned that dramatic regulatory restructuring could be detrimental to Idaho’s malt barley industry.

 

Resolution No C5 – Regulations Impacting Youth Workers in Agriculture

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any regulation that would limit the ability of farmers to legally employ youth to work in agriculture.

Supporting Statement

Proposed provisions by the U.S. Department of Labor to the Fair Labor Standards Act could negatively affect those involved in livestock and grain production, commodity transport, youth agricultural education, and other sectors.

 

Resolution No C6 – United Nations Treaties

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes regulations through treaties from the United Nations that would inhibit farm operations.

 

Resolution No C7 – Transmission Lines

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will work to ensure that routing of utility corridors be placed on public land first and then to the areas of least impact to private property owners.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA will partner with industry groups and other authorities, including the Idaho Association of Counties, in identifying statutory changes that provide local control over siting options.

 

LEGISLATIVE

 

Legislative Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• using burning as a tool in crop production and will oppose any legislation that prevents farmers from burning crop residue,
• bringing together all groups that use burning as a management tool,
• improving enforcement of Idaho’s trespass law that would give the landowner better protection while putting a bigger burden of proof on the violator,
• tax credits for farmland preservation,
• an effective agriculture burning and smoke management program.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will work

• to protect farmers from legal actions brought against them based on smoke, dust, and other environmental trespass issues,
• with all stakeholders to resolve issues with Idaho’s open range law.

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will be

• actively engaged in legislative action regarding all water issues that affect or could impact water access, availability, and use in the state of Idaho and the region.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• new lien laws or changes to current laws that are detrimental to grain producers.

 

Resolution No L1 – Legal Protection for Farmers

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports legislation that would require reimbursement of legal expenses to agricultural producers who prevail in any action, claim, or counter action alleging that agricultural activities are causing harm.

 

Resolution No L2 – Use of Idaho Big Game Depredation Fund

The Idaho Grain Producers Association seeks a regulatory and legislative framework more beneficial for landowners seeking depredation funds.

Supporting Statement

We support any policy or proposal to adequately and appropriately fund the depredation account, as well as changes to provide a more timely, independent assessment of the need for distribution and a more aggressive approach to distribution.

 

Resolution No L3 – Aquifer

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports aquifer recharge.

 

Resolution No L4 – Water Allocation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports a solution to the water allocation problem within the state of Idaho.

Supporting Statement

IGPA believes all pumpers who are properly licensed by the Idaho Department of Water Resources are part of a class, and IGPA supports state funded mitigation for those impacted by water calls.

 

Resolution No L5 – Recently Purchased Land

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports maintaining recently purchased state and county lands on the county tax rolls.

Supporting Statement

Counties that are positioned within Indian Reservations need to keep a constant tax base when private lands are acquired by the tribe.

 

Resolution No L6 – Swan Falls Agreement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the Swan Falls Agreement as originally written.

 

Resolution No L7 – Commodity Indemnity Fund (CIF)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports all efforts to maintain accountability, monitor efficiency, and protect the Commodity Indemnity Fund. An important component is the ability of the committee to review all claims.  The CIF should also monitor and include the regulation of commodity dealers located outside state boundaries who are the first point of delivery.

 

Resolution No L8 – Personal and Sensitive Information

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the protection of personal and sensitive information that is not required to be released by law.

 

Resolution No L9 – Trespass Code Change

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports Idaho Code pertaining to trespass that shifts the regulatory burden from the landowner to sportsmen or any other such trespassers on any and all private ground.

Supporting Statement

At present, landowners must post ground to keep people off. The relevant Idaho Code must be modified such that all privately owned land is restricted from sportsmen access or any other trespasser unless permission is granted by the landowner(s).

 

Resolution No L10 – Genetically Engineered Food Labeling

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports only voluntary labeling of food products derived from biotech ingredients provided it is consistent with U.S. law and international trade agreements.

Supporting Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes federal or state mandated labeling of products based solely on the method of production, including foods derived from biotech ingredients if they do not differ significantly from their non-biotech counterpart.

 

Resolution No L11 – Idaho Open Range Law

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will institute a dialog with livestock stakeholders and elected officials to find remedies to problems with Idaho’s Open Range Law.  This is the first step toward resolution of the problem, but may not be last.

Supporting Statement

The Idaho Open Range Law and its application are antiquated and has allowed for abuse in many cases.  The IGPA supports working with livestock stakeholders to bring fairness and balance to the application of open range law in Idaho.

 

TAXES

 

Tax Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• Section 179 of the IRS Code dealing with accelerated depreciation at a level not less than $500,000,
• the deferment of capital gains taxes when profits are placed in a qualified retirement plan,
• the research efforts of the University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and encourages the Idaho legislature to adequately fund the Research and Extension Service of the college,
• a two-thirds majority to be retained as a requirement to pass a bond levy,
• relieving the burden of property taxes on Idaho farmers.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• changes to the State of Idaho production tax exemption as it now stands,
• changing the homeowner’s exemption law that adversely shifts the tax burden to grain producers,
• the creation of a federal Value Added Tax (VAT).

 

Resolution No T1 – Highway Fuel Tax

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports distribution of Idaho highway fuel tax receipts to be used solely for highway infrastructure and maintenance.

 

Resolution No T2 – Investment Tax Credit

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the reinstatement of the federal investment tax credit.

 

Resolution No T3 – Capital Gains Taxes

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports a reduction in capital gains taxes for properties held long-term.

 

Resolution No T4 – Estate Tax Exemption

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports existing estate tax law and opposes any attempts to reduce the exemption.

 

Resolution No T5 – Incentives for Small Brewers

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports legislation that reduces the federal excise tax on brewers producing less than 2 million barrels of beer annually.

Supporting Statement

Legislation to cut by half the per barrel federal excise tax on the first 60,000 barrels of beer production mutually benefits small, craft brewers and barley producers through additional investment, job creation, and increased purchases of locally-sourced malt barley.

 

Resolution No T6 – State and Federal “Sin” Tax Increases

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes state and federal tax increases from current levels on beer sales and consumption as a means to boost general revenues.

 

Resolution No T7 – Idaho Personal Property Tax

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any shift of taxation to real property from a reduction or repeal of Idaho’s personal property tax.

 

Resolution No T8 – Fuel Tax Rebate

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any initiative or legislation that would require farmers to apply for a fuel tax rebate.

 

TRANSPORTATION

 

Transportation Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the movement of permitted oversized loads in the state of Idaho,
• maintaining and improving the Snake & Columbia River transportation system and facilities,
• eliminating bulk grain exports from cargo preference policy requirements,
• uniform truck regulation for the United States, Canada, and Mexico,
• amending Idaho truck weight laws to the maximum federal Formula B, therefore providing uniform maximum gross vehicle weights among western states,
• the Columbia River jetty project,
• the establishment of the Idaho Transportation Department’s (ITD) Trucking Advisory Council while encouraging activity and agriculture representation in it,
• an expeditious resolution to the labor dispute impacting grain export terminals and grain shipments within the Port of Portland and along the Columbia-Snake River System,
• the work of the Alliance for Rail Competition (ARC) and will take a leadership role in the coalition.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• the proposed CANAMEX corridor until the federal government eliminates the current weight disadvantage to Idaho carriers,
• federal regulations requiring farmers to have a Commercial Driver’s License for operation of farm equipment and trucks,
• Idaho DOT regulations seeking to require farm vehicles over 26,001 pounds to register with the state Motor Carrier Services department instead of the local county DMV office.

 

Resolution No Trans 1 – Railroad Access

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports federal legislation that provides increased competition on US railroads.  Such legislation will serve to provide rail-to-rail competition for Idaho’s captive rail customers.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA recognizes the efforts by the Alliance for Rail Competition (ARC) that have developed legislation to provide competitive, increased, and enhanced competition for captive rail shippers.  Such increased access is important, given mergers that have resulted in fewer railroads in the United States.

 

Resolution No Trans 2 – Reciprocity Agreements

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports reciprocity agreements of farmer carriers delivering their own products across state lines.

 

Resolution No Trans 3 – Uniform Truck Weights (Federal)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports legislation permitting commercial vehicles at weights up to 129,000 pounds to use I-15, I-84, and I-86 of the Interstate System in the State of Idaho.

 

Resolution No Trans 4 – Truck Fees

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports truck fees being equitable on a cost per mile basis.

 

Resolution No Trans 5 – Road Improvement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports an increase in funding for road improvement from multiple sources to be split equitably with locals (defined as cities fewer than five thousand (5,000) in population), counties, and highway districts.

Supporting Statement

There is a shortfall in funding for road maintenance and improvement.  In lieu of this, IGPA believes an increase of funds for improving roads is necessary.

 

Resolution No Trans 6 – US Department of Transportation Truck Numbers

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes USDOT numbers for trucks engaged in transporting commerce within Idaho.

 

Resolution No Trans 7 – Intrastate Transportation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports an intrastate transportation movement designation in non-commercial vehicles for all movements of agriculture produce from the farm to a point-of-sale that does not cross state lines.

 

Resolution No Trans 9 – Barge Surcharges

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes imposition of barge surcharges applied to bulk commodity shipments on the Snake and Columbia River System.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA supports barge movements and the ability to access a critical method to move Idaho-based grain to foreign markets.  However, surcharges threaten Idaho’s grain producers and their market competitiveness. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resolution No Trans 10 – Port of Lewiston Dock Expansion

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the Port of Lewiston’s efforts to expand the loading dock to provide for increased operating efficiencies and continued competitiveness for Idaho’s grain growers.

Supporting Statement

As Idaho’s only seaport and the most inland port on the west coast, the Port of Lewiston exports agricultural products from Idaho, Montana, Washington, Oregon, the Dakotas and Wyoming.  This extension is critical to the continued export of those products into the future. 

 

Resolution No Trans 11 – Federal Hours-of-Service Exemption for Anhydrous Ammonia Transport

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) two-year limited exemption from the federal Hours-of-Service regulations for the transport of anhydrous ammonia from any distribution point to the farm retailer or ultimate consumer.

 

Resolution No Trans 12 – 129,000 lbs. Truck Weights

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the use of a 129,000 lbs. truck weight limit on all Idaho routes designated as structurally appropriate by the entity of jurisdiction.

Supporting Statement

129,000 lbs. “heavy trucks” distribute weight across more axles and thus have a lighter impact on the roads than normal trucking means.  The ability to transport grain increases the competitiveness and cost savings of Idaho grain farmers. The IGPA is a member of the Right Truck Coalition which supports this initiative.

 

 

SUBSECTIONS:

Cons = Conservation

Env = Environmental

Crop = Crop Protection

Final 11/15/13: Scott Fuhriman, Chair

 

CONSERVATION

 

Conservation Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• grower-developed tillage practices and Best Management Practices that are economically feasible to meet conservation plans,
• increasing funding sources that encourage the use of tillage practices to improve air, water, and soil quality,
• Idaho and adjoining sister states enforcing noxious weed laws and educating the public,
• new funding for conservation practices,
• consistent implementation and interpretation of conservation programs and regulations between

Idaho and its sister states,

• the goals and mission of the Idaho Soil and Water Conservation Commission.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will continue

• to monitor all conservation program rules to protect Idaho producers,
• to be a leader in providing grower representatives on agriculture committees at the county, state, and federal levels.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association is opposed

• to conservation dollars funding environmental groups who work against agriculture interests,
• to conservation compliance being linked to crop insurance participation.

 

Resolution No Cons 1 – Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Conservation Reserve Enhancement

Program (CREP)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports wise use of the CRP and CREP programs as natural resource tools.  IGPA will work to make sure CRP and CREP will be used only on environmentally sensitive land.

 

Resolution No Cons 2 – Conservation Reserve Program Best Management Practices (BMPs)

In order to protect surrounding farmland and improve wildlife habitat, IGPA supports enforcement of BMPs on CRP lands to control insects and weeds. We also support the early grazing of CRP.

 

Resolution No Cons 3 – Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports CSP as a consistent, equitable, and fully funded stand-alone program with funding to be distributed by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). IGPA also supports CSP as a continuous sign up program.

 

Resolution No Cons 4 – Conservation Reserve Program Funding

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports cuts to the Conservation Reserve Program and State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) program funding in an equitable percentage to other farm programs.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL

 

Environmental Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the recovery of salmon using the combination of native and non-native genes and utilization of improved collection and transportation systems,
• combating predators such as birds, terns, sea lions, etc. in salmon recovery efforts,
• current US food safety regulations and opposes stricter regulations that could reduce our ability to compete in world markets,
• substantial reform of the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA),
• alternative crop protection products,
• the reduction of non-point source pollution,
• the full authorization and permitting of mines supplying agricultural raw materials,
• modifying the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to take into consideration the economic impact of recovering endangered species.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association is opposed

• to increased state or federal rules regulating dust from agricultural production practices.

 

Resolution No Env 1 – Crop Residue Disposal

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the use of burning as a Best Management Practice in managing heavy residue for effectively and efficiently eradicating and preventing pests and diseases while maintaining yields, protecting water quality, decreasing chemical use, and decreasing soil erosion on productive farm acres.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA will continue to represent Idaho grain farmers on the Idaho DEQ Crop Residue Burning Advisory

Board.

 

Resolution No Env 2 – Small Crop Residue Disposal Program

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports efforts to establish a crop residue disposal program administered by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality for small or de minimus spot burning and bale residue removal.

 

Resolution No Env 3 – Dam Removal

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will actively participate in opposition to the removal of dams on the

Snake and Columbia River systems.

 

Resolution No Env 4 – Columbia River Basin Toxics Reduction

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will work with its counterparts in Oregon and Washington to ensure that producer access and use of legal crop chemicals is not threatened by federal actions to reduce or eliminate toxics in the Columbia River Basin.

 

Resolution No Env 5 – Flow Augmentation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes mandatory flow augmentation.

 

Resolution No Env 6 – Climate Change

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will oppose federal climate change legislation that adversely impacts the viability of Idaho grain producers.

 

Resolution No Env 7 – Navigable Water

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes removing the term “navigable” from the Clean Water Act

and any attempts by Congress or federal agencies to redefine or otherwise make any changes to this term that would negatively impact U.S. agriculture.

 

Resolution No Env 8 – EPA Chemical Application Permitting

The Idaho Grain Producers Association urges the US Environmental Protection Agency to develop a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) chemical application permit and process that is flexible, practical, and adheres with current state application programs.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA supports exploration into the State of Idaho taking primacy over the NPDES permit process for chemical applications. 

 

Resolution No Env 9 – Giant Palouse Earthworm Endangered Species Designation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any attempt to designate as endangered or threatened the

Giant Palouse Earthworm until and unless comprehensive peer reviewed studies are conducted and scientifically sound data are gathered providing evidence to the assumption.

Supporting Statement

Any study of this nature must include an analysis detailing the economic impact of such designation on agricultural production within the affected area.

 

Resolution No Env 10 – Spill Prevention, Control & Countermeasure Program

The Idaho Grain Producers Association is opposed to burdensome, impractical, and unnecessary EPA

regulations under the proposed Spill Prevention, Control, & Countermeasure (SPCC) program.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA supports federal legislation that would expand the minimum amount of aggregate volume of above ground on-farm fuel storage requiring a professionally engineered spill containment structure and certified spill prevention plan.

 

Resolution No Env 11 – Agriculture as a Point Source of Pollution

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes federal, state, or local designation of any agricultural crop production practice as a point source of pollution.  Crop production has historically been regarded as a “non-point” source of pollution under the Clean Water Act (CWA).

 

Resolution No Env 12 – Buffer Zones

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes establishing buffer zones in excess of label recommendations for waterways.

 

Resolution No Env 13 – Fugitive Emissions

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes environmental rules and regulations seeking to penalize farmers for fugitive emissions from dust deriving from generally accepted and responsible agriculture practices.

 

CROP PROTECTION

 

Crop Protection Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the use of science-based data during the US Environmental Protection Agency’s chemical

registration and re-registration process,

• and encourages Congress and the USDA to monitor and ensure that EPA decisions are based on the best available science,
• the Idaho State Department of Agriculture retaining regulatory authority for pesticide use in Idaho,
• working with the Idaho Department of Agriculture to conduct the pesticide licensing and education program,
• emergency use of pesticides as provided under Section 18 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA),
• the administration rule change that removes Section 7(a)(2) consultation requirements

under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for new chemical registrations,

• continued enforcement of organic standards for certification by the regulating authority,
• the intention and regulations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).

 

Resolution No Crop 1 – Pesticide Harmonization

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports and encourages continued action on the efforts of stakeholders, the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) Technical Working Group on Pesticides, and other officials to harmonize the rules, regulations, labels, and other provisions governing the use of crop chemicals and inputs across international borders – particularly between the US and Canada.

 

Resolution No Crop 2 – Pesticide Registration Improvement Act (PRIA)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the continued authorization and goal of PRIA to create a

more predictable evaluation process by the Environmental Protection Agency for affected pesticide decisions and promotes a shorter decision review period for reduced-risk applications.

 

Resolution No Crop 3 – Fusarium Head Blight (Scab)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports increased awareness of research and production practices that minimize or prevent the impact of Fusarium head blight in wheat and barley.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA recognizes that Fusarium head blight is becoming a significant threat to wheat and barley production in Idaho.  The fungus reduces yields and quality in wheat and barley and can pose a threat to human and animal health.

 

Resolution No Crop 4 – Commercial Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for commercial purposes, especially for agriculture, forestry, and other natural resource use.

Supporting Statement:

The FAA is proposing to open the airspace for small commercial Unmanned Air Vehicles by 2015. This technology can help agriculture meet the challenge of feeding a growing world population, comply with government regulations, and become more profitable.

 

Resolution No Crop 5 – Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports Idaho’s efforts to pursue and obtain one of the six Federal Aviation Administration UAV Centers of Excellence Test Sites.

Supporting Statement:

Idaho would benefit greatly with economic creation from private businesses locating within the state to develop and use UAVs.  Idaho’s universities and colleges would also benefit from partnerships and tech transfer with this emerging industry.

SUBSECTIONS:

M = Marketing

GQ = Grain Quality

En = Energy

Final 11/15/13: Burt Fehringer, Chair

 

MARKETING

 

Marketing Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• increased federal funding to the US Wheat Associates (USW) and the US Grains Council (USGC) to continue their market development efforts,
• efforts to promote the whole grain health benefits of wheat and barley,
• the development of new agricultural-based industries and technologies that will benefit rural economies,
• the market and trade development programs administered by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture and requests their continued cooperation and collaboration with the Idaho Wheat Commission and Idaho Barley Commission,
• continued investment in grain storage and related infrastructure along the Columbia and Snake River System which provides increased economic activity and marketing opportunities for Pacific Northwest grain producers.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association encourages

• the continuation of food aid using agricultural commodities.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• all trade embargoes or sanctions which inhibit the free export of US agricultural products,
• reductions to funds administered by the USDA for the Foreign Market Development (FMD) and the Market Access Program (MAP).

 

Resolution No M1 – World Trade Organization (WTO)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) supports the concepts of the US negotiating objectives in the WTO agricultural trade negotiations. The IGPA supports US negotiators pursuing a comprehensive trade reform package that addresses market access, export subsidies, state trading, and equalization of domestic subsidies.

 

Resolution No M2 – Transgenic Wheat and Barley

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the commercialization of transgenic wheat and barley

through public and private research efforts upon customer approval of acceptable tolerance levels.

Supporting Statement

IGPA encourages research and customer/grower education of the benefits of transgenic wheat and barley. IGPA encourages trade teams to visit research facilities and to be educated on the benefits of transgenic wheat and barley.

 

Resolution No M3 – Hard White Wheat (HWW) Classification

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports creating a separate market classification for hard white wheat.

Supporting Statement

Hard White Wheat (HWW) is currently priced according to the hard red winter wheat market. Demand for identity preserved HWW justifies class distinction. We encourage the USDA to segregate statistics on HWW and soft white wheat (SWW).

 

Resolution No M4 – General Sales Manager (GSM) Credit Program

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports continued availability of the USDA administered GSM credit program.

 

Resolution No M5 – Wheat Quality & Farm Service Agency (FSA) Marketing Loans

The Idaho Grain Producers Association urges FSA marketing loan quality discounts to be consistent with Risk

Management Agency (RMA) crop insurance discounts.

 

Resolution No M6 – Trans–Pacific Partnership

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports U.S. engagement in regional free trade negotiations under the auspices of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Supporting Statement

The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is an Asia-Pacific regional trade agreement currently being negotiated among the United States and the ten Pacific Rim countries of Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Canada, Japan, and Vietnam. In addition, the IGPA supports other countries joining the TPP. This agreement should expand market access for U.S. wheat and barley.

 

Resolution No M7 – Wheat Innovation Alliance

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the mission of the Wheat Innovation Alliance and will continue to participate in its activities.

Supporting Statement

Wheat is an essential part of the global diet. As demand increases, it is important to ensure that wheat and wheat foods remain abundant and accessible while meeting the highest possible standards of quality and nutrition.

 

Resolution No M8 – Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the ongoing bilateral free trade negotiations between the United States and the European Union.  The IGPA encourages swift conclusion of the TTIP negotiations and for its passage by Congress.

 

Resolution No M9 – Pacific Northwest Wheat Marketing Center Legislative Tours

The Idaho Grain Producers Association, in collaboration with the Idaho Wheat Commission, supports conducting legislative tours of the Pacific Northwest Wheat Marketing Center and facilities of the Port of Portland as an educational tool for Idaho state legislators and other key government officials.

 

Resolution No M10 – Disruption of Federal Grain Inspection Service Weighing & Inspection Services

The Idaho Grain Producers Association requests that the USDA take all actions necessary to fulfill its statutory obligation to provide official inspection and weighing services at grain export elevator facilities, including prompt replacement of official personnel from other designated or delegated official agencies, or with FGIS official personnel, if a designated or delegated official agency does not provide such service.

Supporting Statement

American farmers, grain handlers, exporters, and foreign customers depend upon accurate, timely, and cost-effective delivery of mandated impartial third-party official inspection services administered by FGIS and its designated and delegated agencies. 

 

GRAIN QUALITY

 

Grain Quality Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

•         USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) rules that require grain samples to be maintained for a minimum of 10 days,
• improvements to the Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) loading system and the development of technology to identify different wheat classes,
• the USDA-FGIS licensing of facilities that can provide official samples for the grain industry,
• regulations that require end-use testing for all future new grain releases,

• the efforts of the Idaho Wheat Commission and Idaho Barley Commission to encourage grain storage  that preserves the quality and  marketability of Idaho wheat and barley through the development of alternatives to open outside storage,

• Tilletia Controversa Kuhn (TCK) testing and continued funding of the US Wheat Marketing Center TCK

program,

• the Idaho Wheat Commission continuing research, identification, and education of wheat varieties that best suit the needs of end users and producers,
• the Idaho Wheat Commission and the Idaho Barley Commission continuing the crop quality survey,
• the efforts of the Idaho Wheat Commission in educating producers, buyers, and end users with regard to falling numbers issues and the options available to them,

• the mission of the Idaho Food Quality Assurance Lab.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• the use of oils as dust suppressants,
• the use of outside storage for Idaho grain,
• the use of malathion in farm-stored grain.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will monitor

• USDA-FGIS rule changes and notify growers of proposed changes,
• dockage charges by grain buyers.

 

Resolution No GQ 1 – Functionality Test

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports timely end-use functionality tests for wheat and barley.

 

Resolution No GQ 2 – Wheat Quality Tests

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports standardized wheat quality tests that are consistent, timely, and reliable.

Supporting Statement

Sprout and falling numbers tests are inconsistent from test to test and across locations. The IGPA supports the Idaho Wheat Commission’s ongoing educational efforts providing growers with important information about their options when facing wheat quality challenges.

 

Resolution No GQ 3 – Pacific Northwest Wheat Quality Council

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the collaboration with, and goals of, the Pacific Northwest Wheat Quality Council.

Supporting Statement

The Pacific Northwest Wheat Quality Council is a not-for-profit organization comprised of wheat breeders, cereal chemists, producers, marketers, inspectors, processors, and users of wheat. The Council aims to solicit and evaluate advanced-generation wheat breeding lines, thereby providing direct feedback to the merits of individual breeding lines and more general information as to the technical requirements of wheat end-users.

 

ENERGY

 

Energy Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• economically viable renewable energy sources,
• and promotes utilization of Idaho’s agricultural biomass for industrial uses,
• National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) advocacy and development efforts for cellulosic ethanol and biodiesel in Idaho.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will monitor

• the national effort calling for 25% renewable fuels by the year 2025 (25×25).

 

Resolution No En 1 Utilization of Biomass

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports federal and state incentives for the production and the

utilization of Idaho’s agricultural biomass in industrial products.

Supporting Statement

Such utilization would reduce dependence on foreign oil imports, revitalize rural economies, and provide new markets and revenue streams for grain producers.

 

Resolution No En 2 – Renewable Energy

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports establishing an economically viable renewable energy portfolio for utilities within Idaho.

 

Resolution No En 3 – Private Renewable Energy Development

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any statewide moratorium on additional renewable energy generation.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA supports private property rights and believes zoning decisions affecting renewable energy sources remain at the local level.

 

Resolution No En 4 – Nuclear Power

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the use of safe, responsible nuclear power.

 

Resolution No En 5 – Coal & Biomass Gasification

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports clean coal and biomass gasification to produce low sulfur diesel and nitrogen-based fertilizer.

 

Resolution No En 6 – Power Rates

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any power rate increases during the growing season and will support other associations’ efforts in opposing mid-season power hikes.

Supporting Statement

In the past, rates have increased throughout the growing season. Farmers need a stable rate in order to budget appropriately for that year.

 

Resolution No En 7 – Public Utility Commission Power Rate Changes

The Idaho Grain Producers Association shall take an active role in challenging future power rate increases for irrigators.

 

Resolution No En 8 – Idaho Oil and Gas Conservation Commission

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the mission of the Idaho Oil and Gas Conservation Commission in regulating the exploration, drilling, and production of oil and gas resources on private, state, and federal land.

Supporting Statement

Administered by the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL), the Commission oversees the efficient recovery of oil and gas, protection of correlative rights, and protection of fresh water supplies per Idaho law.

 

Resolution No En 9 – Idaho Strategic Energy Alliance Biofuel Task Force

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports ongoing participation with the Biofuel Task Force of the Idaho Strategic Energy Alliance.

Supporting Statement

The Biofuel Task Force operates as a subset of the Idaho Strategic Energy Alliance which serves as Idaho’s primary mechanism to engage in seeking options for and enabling advanced energy production, energy efficiency, and energy business in the State of Idaho.

SUBSECTIONS:

PR=Public Relations MEMB=Membership

Final 11/15/13: Joseph Anderson, Chair

 

PUBLIC RELATIONS

 

Public Relations Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• membership and participation in Agriculture and Natural Resource Industry PAC (ANRIPAC), Columbia River Channel Deepening Coalition, Food Producers of Idaho, Idaho Council on Industry and Environment (ICIE), the National Association of Wheat Growers PAC (NAWG), and Coalition For Idaho Water,
• the efforts of the Wheat Foods Council and National Barley Foods Council,
• the “Ag in the Classroom” and “Bread in a Bag” programs,
• full funding for National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, U.S. Wheat Associates, and the U.S. Grains Council,
• the mission and efforts of the National Wheat Foundation,
• the Leadership Idaho Agriculture (LIA) program and the involvement of IGPA members in its activities,
• IGPA involvement in the Wheat Organization Leaders of the Future (WOLF) and the Wheat Industry Leaders of Tomorrow (WILOT) programs,
• participation in the annual Pacific Northwest Wheat Marketing Tour,
• participation in the annual statewide University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Research and Extension cereal schools,

• the Wheat Innovation Alliance, a coalition of wheat chain groups united by commitments to innovation in wheat production and to achieving acceptance for the introduction of wheat enhanced using biotechnology,
• the Idaho Wheat and Barley Political Action Committee supporting agriculture friendly state legislative candidates and the Idaho Grain Political Action Committee supporting agriculture friendly federal candidates.

 

Resolution No Pr 1 – “Idaho Grain” Magazine

The Idaho Grain Producers Association strongly supports a flexible collaboration for the publication of the

“IDAHO GRAIN” magazine with the Idaho Wheat Commission and the Idaho Barley Commission.

Supporting Statement

The “IDAHO GRAIN” magazine is a tool for distributing education and information to the grain industry.

 

Resolution No Pr 2 – Unified Working Relationship, Wheat

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the National Association of Wheat Growers, the National

Wheat Foundation, and the US Wheat Associates in creating and maintaining a unified working relationship.

 

Resolution No Pr 3 – Unified Working Relationship, Barley

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the National Barley Growers Association, the US Grains Council and the National Barley Improvement Committee in creating and maintaining a unified working relationship.

 

Resolution No Pr 4 – Media Interaction

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports positive interaction with the media to promote the Idaho grain industry.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA will encourage staff and board members to contact local media with positive news from the agriculture industry and farms.

 

Resolution No Pr 5 – Social Media

The Idaho Grains Producers Association supports the use of social media including Facebook, blogs, and webinars to interact with and provide education and advocacy to its membership of the activities of the Association.

 

Resolution No Pr 6 – Internship

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the value of an internship program.

 

 

MEMBERSHIP

 

Membership Policy Statement

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• recruitment of women for active organizational involvement,
• involvement of young producers in all activities of the Association,
• finding new and innovative ways to maintain and gain membership.

 

Resolution No Memb 1 – Increasing Membership

The Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) recommends the State Director or an officer in each county get at least one new member per year and/or work to maintain their membership.

 

Resolution No Memb 2 – One Day in County

The Idaho Grain Producers Association requests that the Executive Director or a member of the Executive Board spend one day in each organized county a year. Time would be spent with the County President and the Board of Directors who will contact potential grower and associate members in the county.

 

Resolution No Memb 3 – Convention Attendance

The Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) encourages all organized counties to provide a scholarship for members that have not previously attended an IGPA Convention.  The IGPA Executive Board will work with counties that have limited funding to locate and secure funding.  Implementing methods of at least one new member from each county organization to the state convention will be forwarded to county executives.

 

Resolution No Memb 4 – “Idaho Grain” Monthly Newsletter

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will provide to its membership a monthly newsletter of the Association’s activities and related industry news as a unique benefit and a means to increase communication and information sharing.

 

Resolution No Memb 5 – Legislative Updates

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will provide to its membership a weekly or bi-weekly update regarding state legislative activities and related industry news throughout the legislative session as a unique benefit and a means to increase communication and information sharing.

 

Resolution No Memb 6 – County Affiliates

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will work to identify prospective counties for membership affiliation, and will assist in developing farmer leaders to represent the county.

 

 

Resolution No Memb 7 – Mentor Program

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports a Mentor Program to develop future farm leadership candidates.

 

SUBSECTIONS:

R=Research

Rmgmt=Risk Management

Final 11/15/13: Jeff Tee, Chair

 

 

RESEARCH

 

Research Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• research to upgrade nutrient management recommendations,
• research on weeds, pests, and diseases that threaten the cereal crops system,
• research on new food and nonfood uses for cereal grains and co-products,
• the continued multi-state research effort to attract new funds and pool existing funds for small grains research projects,
• the release of all wheat and barley varieties developed with public dollars that ensures access to said varieties by Idaho producers,
• identifying and recommending priorities for research faculty, extension faculty, and staff positions at the University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS),
• the continued funding of the Cereal Rust Disease Initiative to address the threat posed to cereal production in the US,
• a systems approach to Best Management Practices (BMP),
• the involvement in and efforts of the Wheat Innovation Alliance and the National Barley Improvement Committee,
• the updating of T-Yields for crops in our region, specifically barley, with new yields being implemented in 2013 for use in the 2014 crop year,
• the Idaho Wheat Commission in the continued development and implementation of a wheat research and education initiativ

 

Resolution No R1 – Managing Invasive and Herbicide Resistant Weeds in Cereal Grains

The Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) supports the research and education program that develops control practices for invasive and herbicide resistant weeds. The IGPA requests federal

funding for the University of Idaho and other state agricultural experiment stations, including USDA-ARS

and USDA-APHIS, to develop control programs for invasive and herbicide resistant weeds.

 

Resolution No R2 – Yield and Quality in Barley and Wheat Varieties

The Idaho Grain Producers Association recommends that the Idaho Wheat Commission and the Idaho Barley Commission continue funding a varietal program with priority towards developing widely adaptable, high yielding quality wheat and barley varieties.

 

Resolution No R3 – Development of Varieties and Marketing of Hard White Wheat

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the development of a Hard White Wheat (HWW) Initiative to develop new varieties that meet the needs of Pacific Northwest producers and end users along with marketing strategies for hard white wheat.

 

Resolution No R4 – Effect of Long Term Residue Removal in the Production of Small Grains

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports research that addresses economic and agronomic questions regarding long term residue removal in small grain systems.

Resolution No R5 – Sustained Increases in Small Grains Research

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports a sustainable increase in investment of state and federal funding of small grains research, education, extension, and infrastructure.

Supporting Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association is concerned about the steady decline in operating funds related

to small grains research. Increased investment in this area is vital to the future and effectiveness of grain production.

 

Resolution No R6 – University of Idaho Agriculture Research & Extension Funding

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports full and stable funding for the University of Idaho

Agriculture Research and Extension System.

Supporting Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association is concerned about substantial reductions in state funding for the UI Agriculture Research and Extension System. Inadequate financial resources are causing loss of long- term research information and essential technology transfer capability that will undermine the future of Idaho agriculture.

 

Resolution No R7 – Biotechnology

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the goals and policy statement of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) and US Wheat Associates (USW) joint biotech committee regarding the research and market development of transgenic wheat.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA believes it is important to educate our legislators and consumers about the value of biotechnology. The IGPA supports the NAWG and USW “Wheat Industry Biotechnology Principles for Commercialization” joint position paper.

 

Resolution No R8 – Tri-State Research Collaboration

The Idaho Grain Producers Association recommends the Idaho Wheat and Barley Commissions collaborate with their counterparts in Washington and Oregon to maximize the research and education programs among the University of Idaho, Washington State University, and Oregon State University.

Supporting Statement

Increasingly limited funding and heightened demand for technology to conduct agricultural research and extension programs require greater efficiency and effectiveness between industry and Pacific Northwest land-grant universities. Every effort should be made to ensure that agriculture research programs be relevant, non-duplicative, and cutting edge.

 

Resolution No R9 – TCK (Telletia Controversa Kuhn) Smut Research

The Idaho Grain Producers Association recommends maintaining TCK smut research.

 

Resolution No R10 – Cereal Grains Research and Extension Initiative

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports legislative efforts to create a Cereal Grains Research Initiative (CGRI) that enhances federal funding for cereal research to address the critical needs of wheat and barley growers.

Supporting Statement

The CGRI will focus on developing and disseminating science-based tools specific to crop and regional needs for yield, product quality and functionality, environmental responses and tolerances, nutrient management, pest and disease management, and enhanced nutritional content.

Resolution No R11 – Aberdeen Agriculture Research Service, Barley

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports enhanced funding for federal barley research at the

USDA Agriculture Research Service (ARS) Small Grains Research Program in Aberdeen, Idaho.

 

Resolution No R12 – Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the protection of intellectual property. This includes

education about the importance of complying with Plant Variety Protection (PVP)/seed contract and stewardship provisions as well as the enforcement of those provisions.

 

Resolution No R13 – Public/Private Research Relationships at the University of Idaho

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the University of Idaho seeking opportunities with public/private partnerships that would have long term benefits to producers.

 

Resolution No R14 – Barley Agronomist Research Position

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the creation of a dedicated barley agronomist position within the research and extension system of the University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

 

RISK MANAGEMENT

 

Risk Management Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the continuation and improvements of federal risk management programs including crop insurance,
• funding for producers’ risk management education,
• risk management programs that are available to all growers in the Pacific Northwest, including Idaho, on an equitable basis,
• the Malting Barley Price and Quality Endorsement (MBPQE) and specialty barley crop insurance programs administered by the USDA Risk Management Agency,
• the use of the 508(h) private product submission process to develop new risk management

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• further cuts to the federal crop insurance program.
• legislative or rulemaking efforts to apply “means testing” to determine eligibility for federal crop insurance participation.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 1 – Actual Production History (APH) Adjustments for Animal Damage & Fire The Idaho Grain Producers Association recommends that the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) continue to support catastrophic yield adjustments on an individual’s Actual Production History (APH) yield to mitigate the effect of catastrophic causes (such as fire and wildlife damage) due to no fault of the grower.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 2 – Pack Factors

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will work with the USDA-Risk Management Agency (RMA) and

USDA-Agriculture Research Service to support the RMA commissioned study to evaluate Pack Factors.

Supporting Statement

The Agriculture Research Service began a study in 2009 to evaluate the Pack Factors for wheat, corn, sorghum, soybeans, oats, and barley in storage. Thus far, Pack Factors include variables such as grain type, moisture, test weight, and bin geometry. The final report is due April 2014.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 3 – Quality Triggers

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports working with the USDA Risk Management Agency and the USDA Farm Service Agency to include quality triggers that are reliable, uniform, updated annually, and reflective of discounts at the point of sale on the discount table for adjustment purposes.

Supporting Statement

These quality triggers include but are not limited to falling numbers for all classes of wheat and low protein.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 4 – Effective Insurance Coverage Dates for Fall Planted Wheat

The USDA Risk Management Agency should attach coverage on fall wheat at time of planting rather than the final planting date.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 5 – Common Crop Reporting Dates and System

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the implementation of a streamlined system that allows the producer to report planting dates and yield data one time only, and then having that information available to both USDA Risk Management Agency and USDA Farm Service Agency.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 6 – Federal Crop Insurance Premium Payment Dates

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes the movement of the  premium due date from October to August. We encourage Congress to maintain the current crop insurance premium payment dates.

Supporting Statement

Proposed changes to an earlier premium date will force producers carrying Federal Crop Insurance to pay two insurance premiums in one crop year and would also compete with harvest activities.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt No 7 – Allocation of Replant Payments

The Idaho Grain Producers Association encourages and supports the USDA Risk Management Agency in drafting language that will provide an insurance option allowing the lessee to receive all the replant payments if they are incurring all of the replant costs.