Wyoming Agriculture Depends on Smart Policy and Modern Tools

Wyoming agriculture operates at the intersection of environmental reality and public policy. 

For farmers and ranchers, decisions made in the legislature do not stay on paper – they affect how land is managed, how risk is controlled and whether farms and ranches remain viable from one season to the next. 

This is why agricultural policy must be grounded in science and have a clear understanding of how farming actually works in Wyoming.

At the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation (WyFB), we are dedicated to strengthening Wyoming agriculture and enhancing Wyoming’s communities. We serve as the voice for farmers and ranchers across our state, bolstering their needs to continue their farms and ranches. 

Their contributions not only feed and fuel our state, they support a larger, national supply chain. 

Any farmer will tell you, even when their crop is not in season, they are working to maintain their land. The tools they use throughout the year are essential to making sure their crop is protected from weather, animals and disease. 

These resources are the first line of defense against threats like cheatgrass and other toxic weeds. Unfortunately, we have seen efforts to try to limit these tools, without being mindful of consequences to farmers and the communities they feed. 

The indiscriminate limitations and restrictions of crop protection tools only hurt crops and makes it more difficult for farmers to provide a safe, healthy and plentiful harvest season after season. 

States like Georgia and North Dakota have already taken steps to protect farmers and crops from overregulation of the federally-approved tools they have available to them. 

As lawmakers prepare for the upcoming legislative session, agricultural policy must remain grounded in science, consistency and the protection of farmers. 

Wyoming farmers and ranchers are leaders in conservation practices which protect soil, water and wildlife while keeping farms and ranches viable. Smart agriculture policy recognizes this reality and supports farmers’ ability to plan, invest and grow with confidence.

The decisions made during this legislative session will shape the future of Wyoming agriculture for years to come. 

Lawmakers have a clear opportunity to stand with local farmers and ranchers – supporting science-based policy to protect food security, rural economies and the working lands that define Wyoming’s heritage.

Todd Fornstrom is the president of WyFB. He can be reached at tfornstrom@wybf.org or 307-630-7448.