2016 Resolutions

SUBSECTIONS:

C=Congressional (US)

L=Legislative (ID)

T=Tax (ID, US)

Trans=Transportation

Final 11/13/15:  Mark Trupp, Chair

CONGRESSIONAL

 

Congressional Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the relicensing of all power generating dams in the Pacific Northwest,
• 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,
• the fair market exchange of foreign grain without the use of artificial barriers,
• all levels of government in using peer-reviewed, sound scientific data when making public health and environmental decisions that could affect crop viability,
• legal action to enforce existing U.S. laws prohibiting the importation of food products on which chemicals are used that are not registered in the U.S.,
• beginning young farmer programs,
• Food Aid (P.L. 480) programs that endorse exchange of the physical commodity and not currency,
• maintaining the Nutrition Title as part of the Farm Bill,
• renewal of the Columbia River Treaty with Canada to maintain flood control, power generation, and transportation.

 

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes

• a further reduction of USDA farm program payment limitations from current Farm Bill levels,
• any reductions in funding of current Farm Bill programs, unless equitable reductions are made to all federal programs,
• tying conservation compliance requirements to crop insurance,

• using means testing to establish or restrict participation in federal farm programs,

• EPA and Idaho Department of Environmental Quality regulation of fugitive dust emissions derived from normal agriculture practices,
• any attempts to change the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) exemption from federal worker safety standards for farms with fewer than 10 employees.

 

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 Programs

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will partner 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.

 

Resolution No C6 – United Nations Treaties

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

 

Resolution No C7 – Transmission Lines

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will seek solutions 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.

 

Resolution No C8 – Data Privacy

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will seek data privacy protections for farmers that:

• strip personally identifiable information collected,
• require companies collecting, storing, and analyzing proprietary data to provide full disclosure of their intended use of the data,
• compensate farmers whose proprietary data is shared with third parties who benefit from the use of such data,
• ensure all safeguards are used to ensure that proprietary data is stored at an entity that is not subject to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request,
• uphold the right of a producer who no longer wishes to participate in aggregated data sharing with a private company and wants to remove their past aggregated data from the company’s data base thereby revoking the company’s ability to sell or use said data in the future.

 

Resolution No C9 – Commercial Use in Agriculture of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the creation of a framework for authorization and use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) by the Federal Aviation Administration for use in commercial agricultural production.

Supporting Statement

UAV use in production agriculture can provide valuable agronomic information and should be an authorized and accessible technology available to farmers. Agricultural representation on the rule making committee is critical to the formulation of balanced rules.  IGPA will work with other agriculture industry interests, including the NAAA, to promote agricultural perspectives during the rulemaking process.

 

 

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 shifting the burden to the violator,
• tax credits for farmland preservation,
• an effective agriculture burning and smoke management program,
• 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,
• the Idaho Wheat Commission and the Idaho Barley Commission in their ongoing efforts to fulfill their missions.

 

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.

 

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 that adequately and appropriately funds the depredation account.  We also support changes that 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 groundwater and surface water users working together to find a solution to the water allocation problem – but the State of Idaho has a responsibility to all parties to find and fund the most fair and equitable way to meet the needs of all agricultural users.

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.  It is critical that CIF maintains sufficient fund balances to support a growing agricultural economy.  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 – 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 L10 – Idaho Open Range Law

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will continue working with livestock stakeholders and elected officials to find remedies to problems with Idaho’s Open Range Law.  We will create a regional structure to address situations on a local basis.

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.

 

Resolution No L11 – Idaho Department of Environmental Quality Notice of Violation

Idaho Grain Producers Association supports improving the process, utilizing rules, or passing legislation that will clarify the procedure by which the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) notifies farm operators of environmental violations.

Supporting Statement

It is important that the first notification of a problem or complaint does not subject farmers to legal proceedings.

 

 

 

TAXES

 

Tax Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the deferment of capital gains taxes when profits are placed in a qualified retirement plan,
• a two-thirds majority 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 is currently administered,
• changing the homeowner exemption law that adversely shifts the tax burden to grain producers.

 

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 compromise legislation that modernizes excise taxes for both large and small brewers.

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.

 

Resolution No T9 – Section 179 Extension

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports passage of permanent law to extend Section 179 of the IRS Code providing for accelerated depreciation at a level not less than $500,000 indexed for inflation and for bonus depreciation at a level of 100 percent.

 

 

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 River and 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 role of the Idaho Transportation Department’s (ITD) Trucking Advisory Council while encouraging activity and agriculture representation on it,
• the work of the Alliance for Rail Competition (ARC) and will assume 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 – U.S. 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 8 – 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 that moves Idaho-based grain to foreign markets.  However, surcharges threaten Idaho’s grain producers and their market competitiveness. 

 

Resolution No Trans 9 – Port of Lewiston Operations

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the function and operation of the Port of Lewiston as critical to the viability of the Idaho grain industry.

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 Port is critical to the continued export of these products in the future. 

 

Resolution No Trans 10 – 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 11 – 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 entities 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.

 

Resolution No Trans 12 – Rail Shippers Transportation Advisory Committee

The Idaho Grain Producers Association strongly endorses the role of the Rail Shippers Transportation Advisory Committee (RSTAC) in advising the federal Surface Transportation Board (STB).

Supporting Statement

The IGPA will actively support the inclusion of farmers on the RSTAC to ensure that agriculture is represented on freight rail matters before the STB.

SUBSECTIONS:

Cons = Conservation

Env = Environmental

Crop = Crop Protection

Approved 11/13/15: Scott Fuhriman, Chair

 

CONSERVATION

 

Conservation Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• grower-developed tillage practices and Best Management Practices which 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 neighboring 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 counties and other 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 participation in federal crop insurance

 

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 U.S. 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 – Interference of Ozone Standards with Crop Residue Burning Program

The Idaho Grain Producers Association will ensure that air quality standards for ozone will not impact the Idaho Crop Residue Burning Program.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA is concerned about the impact of increasing ozone levels and restrictive EPA air quality standards on the Crop Residue Burning Program administered by the Idaho DEQ, especially when a large percentage of pollutants are being sourced from outside of the state and even the country. The IGPA will actively engage in any federal or state agency rulemaking to ensure that the burning program is sustained.

 

Resolution No Env 3 – Small Crop Residue Disposal Program

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the 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 4 – 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 5 – 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 6 – Flow Augmentation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes mandatory flow augmentation as a method to promote fish habitat and survival.

 

Resolution No Env 7 – 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 8 – Navigable Water (Waters of the United States-WOTUS)

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.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA opposes and seeks immediate withdrawal of the EPA’s proposed and interpretive rules released in 2014. As written, the WOTUS rules will significantly expand Clean Water Act regulation and cause major harm to U.S. agriculture.

 

Resolution No Env 9 – EPA Chemical Application Permitting

The Idaho Grain Producers Association urges the U.S. 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 10 – Endangered Species Designation

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any attempt to designate as endangered or threatened any species 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 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 Waters of the United States (WOTUS).

 

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.

Supporting Statement

The IGPA supports the adoption of Idaho DEQ rules exempting growers from fugitive dust regulations if said growers engage in commonly accepted farming practices.

 

Resolution No Env 14 – Oppose Age Restrictions

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any effort to limit the age of agricultural workers to 18 or older, either by USDA or the EPA for the application of restricted-use pesticides.

 

CROP PROTECTION

 

Crop Protection Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• the use of science-based data in the U.S. 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 U.S. 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.

 

SUBSECTIONS:

M = Marketing

GQ = Grain Quality

En = Energy

Approved 11/13/15: Burt Fehringer, Chair

 

MARKETING

 

Marketing Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• increased federal funding to the U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) and the U.S. 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

• 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 U.S. negotiating objectives in the WTO agricultural trade negotiations. The IGPA supports U.S. 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 (TPP)

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports U.S. engagement in the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a regional free trade agreement.

Supporting Statement

The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is an Asia-Pacific regional trade agreement among the United States and the eleven Pacific Rim countries of Australia, Mexico, 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 M8 – Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (T-TIP)

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.

 

Resolution No M11 – Labeling Requirement for Genetically Modified Foods

The Idaho Grain Producers Association opposes any requirement to label foods containing genetically modified ingredients.

 

Resolution No M12 – Lifting Trade Embargoes

The Idaho Grain Producers Association encourages lifting all trade embargoes or sanctions which inhibit the free export of U.S. agriculture products.

 

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,
• 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,
• 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

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 – Falling Numbers

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports further research into falling numbers results.

Supporting Statement

Falling numbers tests are inconsistent from test to test and across locations.

 

Resolution No GQ 4 – 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.

 

Resolution No GQ 5 – Standardized Grain Sampling Method

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports a standardized probing method for sampling grain.

Supporting Statement

Not all sampling methods are representative of grain being delivered.  The potential of human error is decreased by probing.

 

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.

 

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 – 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 6 – 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 7 – 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, the protection of correlative rights, and the protection of fresh water supplies per Idaho law.

 

Resolution No En 8 – 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:

R=Research

Rmgmt=Risk Management

Approved 11/13/15: Jeff Tee, Chair

 

 

RESEARCH

 

Research Policy Statement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports

• research to upgrade nutrient management and soil amendment 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 to 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 U.S.,
• 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 Idaho Wheat Commission in the continued development and implementation of a wheat research and education initiative,
• maintaining TCK smut research and variety testing,
• a sustainable increase in investment of state and federal funding of small grains research, education, extension, and infrastructure and full, stable funding for the University of Idaho Agriculture Research and Extension System,
• the Idaho Wheat and Barley Commissions collaborating with their counterparts in wheat and barley producing states to maximize the research and education programs among public and private institutions, as well as private companies,
• enhanced funding for federal barley research at the USDA Agriculture Research Service (ARS) Small Grains Research Program in Aberdeen, Idaho,
• the University of Idaho seeking opportunities with public/private partnerships that will provide long term benefits to produce

 

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 – Biotechnology

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the goals and policy statement of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) and U.S. 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 R6 – Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports the protection of intellectual property in wheat and barley research and development. 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 R7 – Emerging Technologies

The Idaho Grain Producers Association encourages utilization of the latest biotechnology tools available through interdisciplinary, integrated programs aimed at solving some of Idaho’s most difficult issues such as rye grass weeds, falling numbers, wireworm, nematode, pre-harvest sprouting, and other environmental by genetic responses affecting grain quality.

Resolution No R8 – Fusarium Head Blight (Scab) Management

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports funding and continued research on emerging diseases.  Supporting Statement

There is an enhanced risk of Fusarium Head Blight (Scab) associated with changes in cropping and irrigation practices.  This research will help maintain high quality, toxin free cereal production.

 

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 Revenue Endorsement and specialty barley crop insurance programs administered by the USDA Risk Management Agency,
• the Whole Farm Revenue Policy 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 – Integration of Market Discounts with Wheat Crop Insurance

The Idaho Grain Producers Association supports working with the USDA Risk Management Agency and the USDA Farm Service Agency to annually review the quality triggers under loss adjustment procedures to ensure these triggers and discount tables more closely reflect marketplace discounts for damaged grain.

Supporting Statement

Discounts on wheat crop insurance policies do not start until sprout damage exceeds 10 percent.  Millers and grain dealers commonly classify wheat as ‘feed’ when sprout exceeds 3-4 percent. Federal wheat crop insurance discounts should begin with 4 percent sprout damage.

 

Resolution No Rmgmt 2 – 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 3 – 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.

 

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 and allow for a replant payment to be made prior to waiting for the initial fall 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 – 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.