This week was a remarkable reminder of why NAWG’s advocacy matters – and who makes it possible. Despite a major snowstorm that disrupted travel across much of the country, wheat growers from our member states made the trip to Washington, D.C., for NAWG’s Winter Conference and fly-in. Their willingness to step away from the farm, navigate challenging conditions, and show up in person speaks volumes about the commitment wheat growers have to their livelihoods and their rural communities.
Throughout the week, growers met directly with Members of Congress and staff to share their experiences, priorities, and concerns. These conversations matter. There is simply no substitute for farmers telling their own stories – explaining how policy decisions affect their farms, families, and communities. When growers take the time to engage, lawmakers listen, and our advocacy becomes stronger and more effective.
Growers also had the opportunity to engage directly with Administration officials at the White House, including in-depth discussions with senior officials from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Domestic Policy Council, National Security Council, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Environmental Protection Agency. These conversations reinforced the importance of having wheat growers at the table as policies on agriculture, nutrition, trade, national security, and regulation are shaped.
In addition, we recognized and celebrated servant leadership within our own organization. NAWG President Pat Clements has been a steady and respected leader during a pivotal time. During his tenure as a NAWG officer, and over the past year as President, Pat brought calm reason, principled leadership, and a deep understanding of what it means to serve.
Partnerships were also front and center. NAWG’s work is amplified through close collaboration with U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Wheat Foundation. Together, we serve wheat growers through policy advocacy, research, promotion, trade, and market development. These partnerships ensure our message is consistent, credible, and focused on long-term results for farm families.
Taking time away from the farm is never easy – especially during a busy and uncertain time in agriculture. But this week underscored the value of showing up. Advocacy is not abstract; it’s personal. It’s about protecting and growing markets, ensuring clear and workable rules, enacting long-term policies that allow farmers to invest back into the land, and sustaining rural communities for the next generation.
NAWG will continue to lead with the voices of wheat growers at the center of our work. The dedication shown during this Winter Conference – snowstorm and all – demonstrates the strength of our membership and the impact farmers have when they speak for themselves in Washington.