Many hands make the task brief in farm policy work, too
Posted: November 2, 2022
Category:
ICGA, ICMC, Indiana Corn and Soybean Post - Fall 2022
Most of us are familiar with the saying that many hands make the task brief. As farmers, we know that to be true. But it’s not only true on the farm; it’s also true in doing the policy work that allows Hoosier farmers the freedom to make their own decisions on their farms. It’s true in encouraging policies that make it easier for us to export our produce all over the world – increasing their value. It’s also true in creating new products made from our versatile crops.
We’re blessed in Indiana with many farmers willing to take the time to do this off-farm work. Furthermore, we are starting to see some of these farmers gain leadership positions in national farm organizations.
This summer, Anderson, Ind., farmer Joshua Miller was elected chairman of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), which works to promote corn exports around the world. Miller resigned his board position on the Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC) so he could focus on his USGC efforts. Miller’s experience and skills are well-suited for this work, and all Indiana farmers will benefit from his USGC leadership.
J.R. Roesner, already an ICMC board member and a farmer from Ferdinand, Ind., became the third Hoosier to be elected to the National Corn Growers Association’s (NCGA) Corn Board this summer. J.R. volunteered a few years ago to serve on the NCGA’s Ethanol Action Team, eventually becoming the committee’s chair. J.R.’s leadership in the NCGA will be good for Hoosier farmers because he can help direct their efforts to policies that matter to us.
J.R.’s policy work is expanding. He was also elected to represent District 8 in southwestern Indiana on the ICGA board. He replaces Mike Nichols, who has served on ICGA for the past nine years.
Also new to the ICGA board is Mill Creek, Ind., farmer Joe Tuholski. He is not new to service for Indiana farmers, though. Tuholski was on the Indiana Soybean Alliance board for nine years and was the checkoff’s board chair for one year. He will represent District 2 in northwestern Indiana. Earlier this year, after years of service, Christian Rosen decided not to seek re-election.
I was honored to be elected to a second term on the ICGA board, representing District 5 in central Indiana, this summer.
Serving on one of the policy or checkoff boards is rewarding work. You learn that you have the same worries, concerns, goals and joys as thousands of other farmers from around the
Anyone who is considering joining one of these boards should seriously look into it.
However, I don’t want you to think that sitting on a board is the only way to get involved. ICGA and our checkoff boards are always looking for advice on our programs and efforts. We’re looking for farmers who might be willing to learn more about export opportunities and policy. We’re looking for growers who want to encourage the production and sales of ethanol.
I believe you’ll find that the more you give your time, the more rewards you will see.
