THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NEW MEXICO FARM AND LIVESTOCK BUREAU®
Margie McKeen - National Ag Advocate Candidate Questionnaires NMF&LB 2018 Summer Conference Page 1
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
June/July 2018
NMF&LB President’s Column TRACTOR SEAT DAYDREAMING
BY CRAIG OGDEN
The Opportunity to Work The end of the school year is fast approaching and soon kids will be on their summer break. As an elementary student, I remember spending my summers chopping cotton. Friends and kids who lived nearby would also come and work on the farm. Mrs. Rios was our supervisor. She made sure we kept focused and didn’t miss weeds. This gave us a little extra spending money and it increased our self-pride. Boy are those days gone. The Department of Labor, which has been around since March 4, 1913, is now the sole federal agency that monitors child labor and enforces child labor laws. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is the most sweeping federal law that restricts the employment and abuse of child workers. What may seem strange is, enforcement of FLSA’s child labor provision is handled by the Department’s Wage and Hour Division. FLSA restricts the hours a youth under 16 years of age can work and lists hazardous occupations too dangerous for youth workers to perform. Additionally, minors under 16 cannot operate a tractor over 20 power take off (PTO) horsepower. Thank goodness there is a Parental Exemption: “Minors of any age may be employed by their parents at any time in any occupation on a farmed owned or operated by his or her parents.” At least our own family members can work. In a recent meeting which Chad Smith and I attended with the regional EPA staff, the topic of child labor laws was discussed as it pertains to the recently adopted Worker Protection Standards. It was noted that new regulations
in place state the age limit for youth workers handling any chemicals, i.e., spraying, has been raised to 18. EPA staff indicated that the general public was not in favor of the regulation. I am afraid I got on my soapbox and explained to him that this was one of the problems with society right now. Kids, or you might say young adults, don’t know how to work because they weren’t given the opportunity while growing up. Child Labor laws were designed for the safety of children and to insure their education. But common sense should not be thrown out. Many young adults graduating from school have the academic skills, but not the work skills. Professionals with practical experience stand up and above their counterparts who don’t have the where-with-all to instinctively roll up their sleeves and get the job done. Our youth need to be given the opportunity to work. This highlights the importance of the ballot box. We need lawmakers that will push back against excessive regulation such as this. You have an opportunity to elect such leaders starting with the June 5th primary and NMF&LB is here to help. Starting on page 4 of this newsletter you will find several candidates that took the time to explain their positions on issues that affect agriculture. This provides extensive insight and we hope you will take their answers into consideration when you choose your candidate. Go vote so we can stem the tide of excessive regulation.
“But common sense should not be thrown out.”
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Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly. June/July 2018
AFBF President’s Column BEYOND THE FENCEROWS
BY ZIPPY DUVALL
Agriculture and America Need the 2018 Farm Bill Now Thanks to the hard work of Farm Bureau leaders across this country, we have been sowing the seeds for the 2018 farm bill for many months, but now we need all hands to come out for the harvest. Together, we’ve looked at what works and what doesn’t, and what can be done better. The House Agriculture Committee has heard and heeded the concerns of farmers and ranchers across this country, and they are ready to help deliver the 2018 farm bill we need. Chairman Conaway and the House Agriculture Committee kept their word and brought a reform-focused farm bill to Congress swiftly. H.R. 2, “The Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018,” could come up for a vote as early as next week, and we cannot risk division or delay to the legislation. Every lawmaker needs to hear from a farmer or rancher this week. When members of Congress return to Washington next week, there should be no question in their minds as to how important the 2018 farm bill is to agriculture and our rural economy. At Farm Bureau, our strength is in our grassroots, in the passion each one of you has for your life’s work and in how dedicated you are to be growing a safe, sustainable food supply. While farmers are resilient, we have lost nearly half of our net farm income in the last five years. We need to tell Congress that this farm bill is good for farmers and good for our country. Times are tough. While farmers are resilient, we have lost nearly half of our net farm income in the last five years. We need certainty for these uncertain times. The 2018 farm bill would protect federal crop insurance and address challenges facing dairy and cotton farmers. The bill continues the work of streamlining and
improving programs that encourage our conservation work and promote critical research and development for farming practices. Farmers want to keep agriculture moving forward and sustainable for current and future generations, but we must be able to hold on through the tough times to do that. The 2018 farm bill is good for the farm economy and our nation’s economy. Farm Bureau is proud to support this bill because it is fiscally responsible. Even amid great financial hardship for agriculture, we are doing our part to help tighten the belt on the federal budget. The House bill is expected contribute $112 billion to deficit reduction over 10 years’ time. Farmers can also be proud to support the 2018 farm bill because it is good for all Americans. Farm programs and reformed nutrition aid must remain unified if we’re going to secure a stable food supply for all. The new working standards and guidelines for education programs proposed in the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 would give Americans struggling with poverty not only access to the nutrition they need, but also a pathway to learn and enter a new career and get back on their feet. As farmers, we want to see the food we grow get to all Americans’ plates. Our nation’s ability to raise the next generation of citizens, soldiers and leaders depends on it. Every five years, the farm bill provides a great opportunity for agriculture and for our country. As farmers and ranchers, we can speak up on how important these programs are to our livelihood and our ability to grow the food, fuel and fiber we all enjoy. And as a nation, we have the chance to support good nutrition for all and work together to protect the safe, affordable food supply we all depend on.
“...we have lost nearly half of our net farm income in the last five years.”
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June/July 2018
Conversations with the Candidates R E S P O N S E S
T O
A N
N M F & L B
Q U E S T I O N N A I R E
It’s that time again, when the agricultural community starts reading the political tea leaves, hoping for a candidate that will advocate for our state’s farmers and ranchers. How do you choose a representative that is ag friendly? Sometimes it’s hard to discern promises from agendas. New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is hoping to make the process easier with two pieces of information. The first is our “Ag Scorecard.” We’ve compiled the voting records of New Mexico’s political representatives so you can see how their votes align with our objectives. Because it is rather large, we cannot reproduce it here. However, if you’ll go to our website nmflb.org, you’ll find the report in full. Additionally, we sent a survey to all candidates running for the offices of Governor, U.S. House of Representatives, Public Lands Commissioner, and Attorney General. In this section you will find policy positions from those who took the time to respond. The primary is Tuesday, June 5 and the winners will have a lasting impact on the food producers of New Mexico. Please go vote!
Governor Jeff Apodaca (D)
1. What are your thoughts on the importance of agriculture in New Mexico? Agriculture was New Mexico’s first industry. Our first ancestors here were farmers and ranchers. For 500 years, farming has been crucial to the survival of New Mexico and its people. Today, between farming, ranching, value-added and food processing agriculture represents a larger-than $10 billion industry in New Mexico; 12% of New Mexico’s economy; more than 50,000 New Mexicans. By expanding investment in New Mexico’s agricultural sector, we can create new opportunities and grow our tax base for all New Mexicans. 2. If elected, what will your legislative priorities be for agriculture and rural New Mexico? My biggest priority is to invest 5% of our $23 Billion investment funds back into our state. Right now our state’s investment funds portfolio invests in agriculture overseas -- but not at all here in New Mexico. As Governor, I will lead by creating investment programs for the into agriculture. We can create new and greater opportunities for New Mexicans in this sector. The New Mexico First report on agricultural forums held across the state in 2016 found that access to credit was brought up at each meeting held. We need to address this problem head on.I plan to offer low interest loans to expand agriculture and fund start-ups to add value and process local produce. In addition to supporting expanded livestock, apple, alfalfa, chile and pecan crops. I will invest in legalizing hemp production, while greatly expanding cannabis, hops and barley. Opportunities to invest in hemp, cannabis and craft breweries sit in front of us. I will set up programs to invest in these commodities to create more opportunities in New Mexico’s agriculture sector. 3. Do you believe in the constitutional requirement for priority administration of water rights? If not, on what basis do you believe water rights should be administered? Yes, absolutely. N/A 4. Do you favor or oppose agriculture businesses being exempt from gross receipts on some of the products they purchase as inputs for their operation? I believe the GRT code needs restructuring as it currently benefits some, but not nearly all businesses. I favor looking at deductions that benefit and grow an industry, while also lowering overall GRT rates. 5. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? Administration of the Endangered Species Act often does not include collaboration with ranchers and farmers. As Governor, I will insure that
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policy decisions are not just a one-way street of regulations. Protecting species is important. Protection ranching and farming is too. Everyone needs to have a seat at the table as policy is formulated and administered. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? Immigration is tied to labor in the agricultural industry. I am opposed to a culture that vilifies people based on skin color or heritage and breaks families apart. I support pathways to citizenship, temporary worker permits, and honoring residency for children brought here and those who served in the military. As Governor, I will build relationships between us and Mexico, not walls. We need to expand our commercial relationship and increase our trade with Mexico. Our economy will suffer without immigrant labor from Mexico, and a relaxed flow of goods across our border will help both economies. 7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? In addition to the agricultural investment plans stated above, I want to: • Develop statewide co-op programs within our strengths • Expand New Mexico State University’s agriculture research programs to enhance agricultural production • Invest in veteran agricultural and farming programs such as the Desert Forge Foundation and Not Forgotten Outreach • Create low debt finance programs to expand water conservation opportunities • Develop investment in value-added agricultural products where opportunities exist 8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? I believe water supplies and the cost of water is the biggest problem facing New Mexico agriculture, though falling prices and transitioning to a new generation of farmers and ranchers closely follows. Solutions I’d like to implement are: • Low cost loans to improve water infrastructure such as drip irrigation & better tracking and metering of water usage • Investments in economically viable ways of using brackish water, along with investments in better water storage practices including large scale capture and storage of storm water • Having the state complete groundwater and aquifer mapping so we can adopt a longterm, systematic, coordinated approach • Developing state drought and water retention plans • Using the state water plan to address state and federal policies that impact producers • Providing incentives for conversion from water-intensive crops to lowwater crops like sorghum
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9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture We need to simplify the patchwork of differing regulations affecting grazing land use. State trust and private land intermingle with federal land, resulting in a mosaic of ownership that complicates rangeland management. A single ranch often contains private, state trust, and federal land – each with its own set of requirements, leases, permits, and administrators. The predominance of non-private grazing lands, public rangeland laws and regulations, and executive and judicial orders and decisions make it difficult for livestock producers to operate. Agricultural technology, including GMOs I support use of GMO crops. At the same time consumers are showing preferences for larger quantities of locally grown, organic and non-GMO produce. We need to strike a balance where consumers can choose where to spend their food dollars, and producers can choose to be able to profit from growing either type of crop as well. Careful planning by producers, including adequate spacing and the use of border crops, minimizes risk of cross-pollination between GMO and non-GMO crop stands and plants. This should be worked out locally among agricultural producers with the state mediating, rather than dictating, solutions. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities Investing in rural infrastructure is a key part of my plans to Turn New Mexico Around. I plan to put New Mexicans, especially rural New Mexicans, back to work now by investing $400 million dollars of our money and $1 billion in federal grants annually to repair our failing infrastructure to: • Repair our crumbling roads, bridges, acequias, and arroyos • Invest in broadband across the state, specifically in rural areas, to make New Mexicans competitive for the telecommuting jobs of today. We need 100% broadband coverage and higher speeds • Joint public-private investment of $1 billion into renewable energy production, collaborating with our co-ops and oil and gas companies • Energy efficiency/net metering I fully support Net Metering programs and intend to provide low interest loans for ranchers and farmers to build scalable renewable energy systems on their property. This will lower their costs and provide needed new revenue streams as they will be able to sell back excess energy to their electricity provider. 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? I was born in Las Cruces into a family of farmers and educators. When my father, was elected Governor in 1974, I moved to Santa Fe. For 32 years, I’ve been a business executive, building companies and public-private partnerships. I understand the financial pressures faced by farm and livestock bureau members. I’ve been successful because I’ve made sure everyone has a seat at the table when policy decisions are being made. NMFLB members can be assured their voices will be listened to and respected in my administration.
Michelle Lujan Grisham (D)
1. What are your thoughts on the importance of agriculture in New Mexico? Maintaining a vibrant and productive agricultural economy is absolutely essential to the future of our state. New Mexico’s history and culture are built on agriculture, and our cattle, chilies, pecans, and other agricultural products. This industry represents a more-than $2.5b in direct sales, and even more when related industries and value-added agriculture are considered. When I was elected to Congress, I actively sought my seat on the House Agriculture Committee, understanding the important place agriculture holds in our state. As Governor, and as a 12th generation New Mexican, I’ll continue to work with farmers and ranchers to build a sustainable long-term future for agriculture in our state that celebrates this rich aspect of our culture for at least 12 more generations. 2. If elected, what will your legislative priorities be for agriculture and rural New Mexico? First of all, we need to ensure that we are training the next generation of New Mexico farmers, and enabling them to get off to a strong start. The
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average age of farmers nationwide is 58, and in 2012 just 6% of farmers were under the age of 35. I will work to invest in programs that help us build the a stronger young workforce in farming while ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed in the long run. I’ll focus on creating apprenticeship programs and student loan financing options. At the same time I’ll work to improve NMSU’s agricultural programs, making it a global center of excellence for training and research. We also need to ensure access to affordable and transparent leasing and financing options for farmers and ranchers across the state. I would support providing an clearinghouse for information like credit availability, leasing, and access to other financial information while protection our Farm Credit system. I’ll also work to ensure that there are not unintended consequences of policies such as tax changes that affect New Mexico farmers and ranchers. Finally, we need to ensure that farmers and rural New Mexicans have access to high quality infrastructure. This includes roads, bridges, and power lines. And just as important, we must work to connect all of rural New Mexico to quality broadband and technological infrastructure as farms become more dependent on technology. I’ll invest in high-speed broadband that reaches every New Mexico community. Lastly, we must see our agricultural supply chain and processing capacity as a key piece of our rural infrastructure. I’ll work with farmers and businesses to ensure New Mexico products continue to have viable markets. 3. Do you believe in the constitutional requirement for priority administration of water rights? If not, on what basis do you believe water rights should be administered? Yes. Priority administration is the law of the land here in New Mexico, and I’ll support its continuation. However, I will support common-sense laws in line with this that don’t punish farmers for water conservation, and make the adjudication and regulatory process of administering water rights as transparent and effective as possible. 4. Do you favor or oppose agriculture businesses being exempt from gross receipts on some of the products they purchase as inputs for their operation? These exemptions help prevent pyramiding in the Gross Receipts Tax, where a final product is taxed at a higher rate because of taxes paid on inputs or other services. I would favor these exemptions, and look to preserve anti-pyramiding in any GRT reform. 5. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? New Mexico’s public lands need to be administrated in a manner that balances a number of concerns including oil and gas leasing, agricultural purposes, and maintenance of our state’s unique ecosystem and environment. In recent years, efforts to preserve endangered species have led to limits on access to some federal public lands, as well as the reintroduction in order to bolster species wild population. I believe that these efforts need to be balanced, and that farmers and ranchers must have a seat at the table so we can work productively to minimize the impact that efforts to protect our biodiversity have on New Mexicans’ livelihood. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? In Congress I have been a staunch advocate for comprehensive and fair immigration reform. I believe that the only sensible path forward on this issue must include reform of our immigration quotas and legal process, common-sense border security enhancements, and protections for those brought here as children. 7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? One area I would love to see New Mexico improve is in creating helping facilitate the supply chains and economic infrastructure that will enable agricultural enterprises of all sizes across the state succeed. By linking producers to value-adding operations, local consumers and government/ private-sector enterprises like New Mexico’s school districts, as well as global export opportunities, we can help ensure producers across the state can expand into valuable and consistent markets.
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8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? I don’t believe our current policies reflect the need to create a sustainable and vibrant agricultural economy that will last not just over the coming eight years, but for the long run. We need clear long term plans to address the financial viability of agriculture, our farming workforce, and water quality and supply. However, I am impressed by the recent effort, expressed in the Resilience in New Mexico Agriculture plan, by a wide spectrum of stakeholders to come to agreement around a set of concrete solutions to these issues. As Governor, I look forward to working with these stakeholders and our state legislature to implement the most important and effective solutions and put us on a path toward true resilience. 9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture Animal agriculture is the largest sector of New Mexico’s agricultural economy. Livestock and animal products account for 3/4 of farm sales. I believe that we can sustain this important economy while promoting effective, safe, and humane farming practices in partnership with ranchers and farmers. Agricultural technology, including GMOs New Mexico should be a leader in developing and utilizing the next generation of agricultural technology. New practices that help increase yields while reducing water and resource use should be part of the focus of a Center of Excellence in Agriculture at NMSU. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities New Mexico’s rural counties have been left behind when it comes to infrastructure. In order to allow these communities to thrive, and allow farmers to get their goods to market, we must ensure that roads and rail are in good condition. Further, high speed broadband has to be a top priority to ensure rural New Mexicans are not left behind. Energy efficiency/net metering I support net metering and energy efficiency incentives, and believe farmers can be productive partners and leaders in our push to increase renewable energy generation and make New Mexico a leader in clean and efficient technologies. 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? As the only New Mexico member of the House of Representatives serving on the Agriculture Committee, I am proud to have stood by farmers and ranchers across the state. In this role I’ve had the opportunity to meet with New Mexican farmers and ranchers with a range of backgrounds. I’ve helped secure emergency drought assistance for New Mexico and additional funding for farmers market supply chains in our state. I’ve fought for equal treatment of New Mexico Hispanic farmers by the USDA, and my office has helped farmers across the state in applying for disaster assistance programs, expediting their receipt of assistance. I’ve also introduced legislation like the Accelerating Innovative Conservation Technologies and Practices Act, which would help USDA streamline the introduction of new conservation technologies. This will farmers more easily integrate new practices and also improve environmental outcomes to help sustain agriculture in New Mexico for generations to come.
Steve Pearce (R)
1. What are your thoughts on the importance of agriculture in New Mexico? Agriculture is a cornerstone of not only New Mexico’s economy, but its history, heritage, and way of life. From the vast pecan and chile fields throughout the State to the dairy farms and ranches, New Mexico has always been an agricultural hub. As a lifetime member of 4-H, I understand and respect the farm and livestock way of life. I will do everything in my power as Governor, not only to sustain the industry, but help it grow and excel. 2. If elected, what will your legislative priorities be for agriculture
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and rural New Mexico? Too many people are leaving our rural communities because they see no future and that must be reversed. I have a broad plan to build up a vibrant agricultural and rural economy, including: A major objective of the Pearce Administration is to move NM toward self-sufficiency in food. Increased use of hydroponic greenhouses, cleaning up wasted water for use in agriculture, restoring the watersheds in order to capture the water that should be percolating into our streams and aquifers are some of the ways we reach that objective. We need to build up the value-added agricultural components in our state. We need to expand the processing and packaging that occurs in state. Too often this is done elsewhere even for food that returns to our state. That is just lost jobs, business and revenue that should be part of our rural economy. We must safeguard water rights and water access. In Congress, I have fought a 15-year battle with the US Forest Service to ensure the Goss family has access to their legally owned water supply. We also need to bring in better technologies to ensure that agriculture always has a plentiful supply of water. The checkboard nature of the current distribution of federal, state, and private land all intertwined creates an extremely complicated and convoluted system that benefits no one. I will work with the Land Commissioner and the State legislature to create greater certainty, incentivize more efficient use of water and ease of access for all. Improving infrastructure from road to telecommunications services remains a badly needed and underfunded priority in rural New Mexico and that needs to change. 3. Do you believe in the constitutional requirement for priority administration of water rights? If not, on what basis do you believe water rights should be administered? Water rights are essential to the success of the agriculture industry, and the State overall. As Governor, I will work with the State Engineer to preserve and protect Article 16 of the State Constitution in any situation that arises. Many interests try to take water from those who currently own the water rights. The Pearce Administration will actively oppose any constitutional takings that are proposed or attempted. 4. Do you favor or oppose agriculture businesses being exempt from gross receipts on some of the products they purchase as inputs for their operation? Agricultural businesses should not have to shoulder higher taxes that would drive up the cost of food. Current exemptions should remain in place. 5. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? As currently administered, the ESA creates a perverse incentive that promotes and protects species management over the success of the agriculture industry. Whether the Mexican Wolf or the Meadow Jumping Mouse, the federal government have implemented system that deny the agricultural industry the flexibility and legal rights to succeed. In the instance of the jumping mouse, my office has been forced to directly intervene on behalf of the Goss family to ensure they can access their legally owned water. This is the definition of upside down government intervention. As a State, we must be working with the federal government to implement a more collaborative approach, much like the one currently in place for the Lessor Prairie Chicken. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? The current broken immigration system is based on law created 65 years ago. The United States has dramatically changed our immigration system that reflects that change. I have long supported scrapping the current visa system to create a simplified worker visa system. The agriculture industry, along with many other in New Mexico, is continually hurt by the arbitrary and outdated caps for workers the US currently has in place. The United States must create a system that allows US employers, in any sector, to find the workforce they need to be successful. If a dairy in New Mexico cannot find qualified American workers, it should be
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June/July 2018
allowed, without limit from a federal cap system, to employ foreign nationals through a consolidated visa system free from caps and limits. My principles remain: secure the borders, create a guest worker program, bring people out of the shadows, no one cuts to the front of the line, treat people with respect. As Governor, I will continue to stand for these principles. 7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? As a state, we must all use water in the most effective and efficient ways possible. I will protect agriculture water rights but we will also work to achieve the maximum ways of using water. We need to develop the value-added component to our agricultural industries and ensure those businesses are located in our rural communities. By developing local packaging, processing, cooling, drying and extracting business we add to our rural economy and allow our agriculture to grow more and be more profitable. This will improve the lives of everyone who works on agriculture in New Mexico. Additionally, we must fully utilize the market access program within USDA. This program helps expand our tremendous agricultural products to new and more markets nationwide. This will help the State continue to highlight and showcase the culture and heritage of our agriculture industry. That showcase will build our state brand and allow our producers to earn more on what they currently grow. 8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? Water. From the constant attack by the federal government, to the current ongoing Supreme Court case between Texas and New Mexico over water rights, to the basic waters needs of our state water is our primary challenge. First and foremost, the State needs an experienced water attorney representing us at the Supreme Court because we are currently at a great disadvantage. Next, we must work with the oil and gas industry to ensure the clean recycling of more water in the production process. This will help safeguard water for the agriculture industry. We also need to clean up our forests to help replenish our aquifers and restore our watersheds. Other conservation and recycling technologies need to be brought it as well. Israel does far more with very limited water
because it pioneers water technologies. New Mexico needs to be a leader in implementing these technologies that tackle water shortages and increase agricultural production. 9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture; Agricultural technology, including GMOs; Rural infrastructure; and Energy efficiency Animal Agriculture – the nation needs the food products from animals. I will defend that right. Agriculture technology – must be vigorously pursued, mechanical harvesting, computerized processing, etc, must be developed fully. GMO’s – every food is GMO. Seedless grapes, watermelons etc. The international GMO movement is trying to eliminate the bountiful harvests in American Agriculture. I will support NM agriculture producers. Rural infrastructure – is badly needed and will get attention. Energy efficiency – of course we should pursue energy efficiency, but standards should not be implemented that are technologically impossible. These run the spectrum of opportunities and challenges and each needs action. For too long people have said, just wait or pick and choose. We need them all. Our state and our rural way of life is in crisis. There is a reason too many are leaving. We need our political leaders to stop talking in Santa Fe and start making things happen. We need to have safety protections without a doubt. But we are about 20 years too late for excuses. As Governor I will rapidly work across-the-board to move New Mexico agriculture and our rural communities along with our infrastructure to a place where people want to stay because there is an economic and family future. I stayed, I want future generations to stay because they will have opportunity. 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? Agriculture is in my DNA. Growing up, my family had a small farm for food, and my siblings and I participated in 4-H. I am a member of the 4-H hall of fame and former Chairman of the Lea County Fair Board. I have a deep understanding and appreciation for the agriculture industry that stems from personal experience. That experience I have taken throughout my life. It is why in Congress I have repeatedly stood up for rural and agricultural communities that constantly are being overlooked or actively punished by big government and special interests.
U.S. Congress - Congressional District 1 Janice Arnold Jones (R)
1. What should be done to provide ample water resources to our state’s farmers and ranchers? Livestock wells are and should remain guaranteed. The State Engineer should not grant water rights where there are no water rights to grant nor give preference to newer industries over farm and ranch operations The State must take a stronger stand against the attempt, by the State of Texas, to commandeer New Mexico’s water. 2. The Farm Bill is vitally important to New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers. What are your thoughts regarding preservation of beneficial programs within the bill? It is time to introduce and pass an agriculture-only Farm Bill. The current farm bill is 85% or Title 4 benefits and has little to do with farming. 3. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? It is heavy handed and arbitrarily penalizes ranchers. 4. Increasingly, PILT funds are becoming a gamble for states with large federal holdings. Should the federal government relinquish its lands back to New Mexico? Yes, Federal Lands should be returned to the State to generate more income. Currently, PILT is sporadic at best and communities cannot depend on it. But I do believe that a portion of wilderness areas should be considered for public access and preservation as lands are returned to the States.
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5. Do you believe immigration reform is needed? What are the important measures under current immigration law that need to be reformed? Since 1989, approximately 29 million individuals have immigrated, legally, to the United State of America. The process that provided admission to these 29 million individuals is now overburdened, ignored or no longer working. The immigration system must be streamlined, modernized, and most importantly enforced. Border security and border enforcement is vital. Efficiencies in labor visas must be made while these workers are honored, not ostracized. H2A programs must be allowed to function. I have a proposal for DACA too long to consider here. Suffice to say, I believe it is Un-American to punish children for the crimes of their parents. “Chain Migration” must be reconsidered. Cost to become a citizen, after legal immigration, has become exorbitant and should be corrected. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? Work to modernize immigration and return immigration authority to Congress and away from Executive Orders. 7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? Agriculture, especially the family farm and ranch, is aging. We must find ways to bring in young farmers, ranchers, agro pilots, and agricultural scientists to assure the world supply of food. There are some successful urban farming programs directed at Veterans. As with programs to
June/July 2018
educate new doctors, we must create financing and loan tools to help nonlegacy farmers and ranchers buy in to land and equipment. 8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? Three issues: Over reaching regulations, access to financing and labor. Regulation: Consistently ask if the regulation and process used to implement the regulation achieves the outcomes intended. If not, revise the process and/or repeal the regulation. Financing: Consider tools that allow and promote aging farmers and ranchers to turnover assets to younger generation over time. Labor: Make sure that anyone who wants to work may do so including legal immigrants and temporary farm workers. 9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Not sure what you are looking for here. These are broad issues. My top “takeaways” are noted. Happy to discuss further. Animal agriculture – Farmers and ranchers understand that their animals are their livelihood. They are not pets but are cared for humanely and with a focus on their impact on the food chain. Improvements in animal sciences increase productivity, humane care and breeding.
Agricultural technology, including GMOs – better use of seeds, planting, land care, cultivation result in increased yield from smaller and smaller plots of land. I am amazed that using soil treatments such as humates have resulted in as much as 30% increase in crop production with 30% decrease in water use. In-ground irrigation, GPS guided planting; use of drones to fertilize and protect crops puts farmers and ranchers on the cutting edge of technology and has made them the earliest adopters of technology. Rural infrastructure – roads, rail, broadband, utilities – Connectivity/ broadband is essential to the maintaining life in rural America. From commodities to education, the connected farmer/rancher feeds the world, and is the first work force to protect against epidemics. Energy efficiency/net metering – for dairy farms in particular, there is an opportunity to incentivize closed loop energy production. It is time. 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? A brief biography is attached. I am grateful for the willingness of New Mexico farmers and ranchers to answer my many questions enabling me to make good policy decisions. If elected, I intend to keep asking questions. Hope you will keep answering.
U.S. Congress - Congressional District 2 Xochitl Torres Small (D)
1. What should be done to provide ample water resources to our state’s farmers and ranchers? We can only ensure ample water for our farmers and ranchers, and for the food security of all New Mexicans, if we invest in a more reliable, efficient supply, coordinate use of administrative structures to best use our water supply, and continue to build information about the quality and quantity of our limited water resource. We can increase supply by continuing to invest in desalination opportunities and water reuse technology, while making our existing supply more efficient by investing in better municipal distribution, efficient irrigation practices, and decreased system losses during transportation and storage. We can increase information about the quantity and quality of water by reinvesting in the Transboundary Aquifer Assessment Program, increasing support for our most water-scarce regions through the Secure Water Act, and continuing to support drought information collection and water research facilities. 2. The Farm Bill is vitally important to New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers. What are your thoughts regarding preservation of beneficial programs within the bill? The Farm Bill provides us an opportunity to support New Mexico’s economy, which relies heavily on our strong farming and ranching operations. The Farm Bill should continue to support important investments in specialty crops and value added agriculture. It should continue to provide opportunities for farmers and ranchers to invest in water efficiency, and support the next generation of farmers and ranchers who will continue to sustain our food supply. We also need to make sure that dairy farmers have access to the support they need when margins are too low. The farm bill should also continue to invest in our rural communities, too often forgotten in Washington, through programs like broadband expansion. The Farm Bill is essential for all of us, to support our economy, our food supply, and the health of all our children growing up in New Mexico. 3. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? New Mexico’s wildlife draws people from all over the country to relocate and visit our state, but I am also aware of the impact listings can have on our farmers and ranchers, and in turn, our state’s economy. We must protect our wildlife, and work with all stakeholders to find solutions that support our local economy and diverse ecosystems. Farmers and ranchers play an important role in building these solutions and stewarding our great New Mexico lands. The Endangered Species Act has tools for collaboration, and I am committed to working with everyone to make sure we can support species, ecosystems, jobs and our local economies.
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4. Increasingly, PILT funds are becoming a gamble for states with large federal holdings. Should the federal government relinquish its lands back to New Mexico? Current leadership in Washington, DC has played games with rural NM by threatening necessary PILT funds. We need to quit playing games with our PILT funds and continue utilizing our federal public lands. As a hunter, I join over 90% of other New Mexicans who use federal public lands, and I don’t want the State of New Mexico stuck with the bill for massive costs like forest fires or other federal land management responsibilities. 5. Do you believe immigration reform is needed? What are the important measures under current immigration law that need to be reformed? One of my first meetings as a Field Representative for Senator Udall was with a farmer along the border who had deep concerns about immigration. He depended upon a migrant and seasonal workforce for his business and was concerned that if this labor source was cut off that it would be detrimental to our food supply. Similarly, our dairy producers are seeing significant impacts from more stringent immigration enforcement. Our immigration policy must reflect the needs of our country. This means that we need to fill the existing national skills gaps by creating work permits and pathways to citizenship based on certain skills, including in those the agricultural industry. We must also recognize though, that immigrants are more likely to be successful, productive members of our communities when they have a strong network of family to support their transition. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? Too many in Washington on both sides of the aisle are using DACA and DREAMer as a bargaining chip. The United States is the only country that DREAMers have ever known, and it is time to pass a clean DREAM Act, which over 80% of Americans believe is the right thing to do. As a former clerk for a federal judge with one of the heaviest criminal dockets in the country, I have seen first-hand the costs our nation bears because of its broken immigration system. I am in favor of immigration reform that includes options to bring people out of the shadows, allows individuals to work and live in the United States legally, and provides a meaningful pathway to citizenship for qualified applicants. And as I mentioned previously, our immigration policy must both reflect our country’s need to fill existing national skill gaps as well as the understanding that immigrants are more likely to be successful, productive members of our communities. As part of such reform, we can improve border security and prioritize law enforcement so we are targeting criminals rather than ripping apart families.
June/July 2018
7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? The families who make up our agriculture industry are part of the backbone of our state’s economy and a huge part of our culture. I want to be a partner for our agricultural families and industry to continue the economic success and cultural contributions of the agricultural industry. 8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? Higher temperatures, increased droughts, and water scarcity is a huge issue facing New Mexico agriculture. These are effects of a changing climate and we need to face them head on. We should diversify our energy grid and make sure that landowners can take advantage of new revenue from clean, renewable energy opportunities. And as water scarcity increases, we need to bring stakeholders together, farmers, ranchers, conservations, and communities, to determine how to best utilize and share this resource. 9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture: Animal agriculture is important to New Mexico, from our dairies and ranches to specialty operations and the many crops that support our animal agriculture industry. We need to support animal agriculture producers and pursue additional economic opportunities for them. Agricultural technology, including GMOs: Agricultural technology is a key part of the agricultural industry. NMSU is a leader in a number of agricultural technology fields. We need to support research, development, and application of agricultural technology while maintaining the public trust through education and engagement. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities: I know that part of the key to our state’s economic growth is infrastructure investment, and not just roads and bridges, but cell phone and broadband service. As a Field Representative for Sen. Udall, I worked to improve the cell phone service and broadband in our rural communities. And if I am elected, I will be an advocate for investment to improve our infrastructure. Energy efficiency/net metering: Clean renewable energy and energy efficiency are important to our agricultural industry. From solar wells on ranches to more efficient energy use, getting needed energy while minimizing cost can help our agricultural industry. 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? Like so many New Mexicans I grew up with a connection the land. I am a water attorney and former staffer for Sen. Tom Udall, and helped to set up his southern New Mexico district office, which was responsible for serving much of the current 2nd Congressional District. As a Field Representative, I worked on issues ranging from water conservation and infrastructure development to education and health care accessibility. I went to law school at the University of New Mexico, to study natural resources and water law. Immediately after completing my degree, I clerked for a New Mexico federal judge with one of the heaviest criminal dockets in the country. Most recently, I have been practicing law at Kemp Smith focusing mostly on water and natural resources law. Throughout my career, I have successfully brought stakeholders together to develop community solutions to the issues facing southern New Mexico, and I am ready to put that experience to work as our representative in Washington.
Yvette Herrell (R)
1. What should be done to provide ample water resources to our state’s farmers and ranchers? We need to insure we are protecting our watersheds and aquafers. Support the State of New Mexico and other local irrigation/conservation districts that are or may be subject to lawsuits affecting water and water rights designated for agricultural use. More importantly, protect our farmers and ranchers from state and federal takings of water rights that were previously adjudicated to our farming and ranching families. 2. The Farm Bill is vitally important to New Mexico’s farmers and
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ranchers. What are your thoughts regarding preservation of beneficial programs within the bill? Programs that benefit New Mexico farmers and ranchers much be protected in the Farm Bill. Clearly we need to insure the Farm Bill (as the name implies) is not diluted in placing additional burdens on the industry as a whole. In previous years, we have seen a Farm Bill with more funding for entitlement programs than for the Agricultural industry. Assurances for viable programs that benefit agriculture must be protected and improved as industry standards would dictate. 3. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? The ESA is being grossly miss administered from the federal level and is impeding on our ability to prosper in a number of industries. I believe, it is being used and administered by individuals (mostly bureaucrats) who have little or no understanding of western lands, ranch lands and industries that utilize public lands for the benefit of all New Mexicans and Americans. The unwillingness to work with land owners and local and state governments proves even further of the mistreatment industries have suffered – and to some extent – been completely destroyed because of misinterpretation of law and lack of cooperation with land owners most affected. 4. Increasingly, PILT funds are becoming a gamble for states with large federal holdings. Should the federal government relinquish its lands back to New Mexico? Absolutely they should. Utah is currently leading the charge in this effort and New Mexico should have the political will to work just as diligently to gain control of public lands. The evidence is obvious the federal government is either unwilling or unable to management this responsibility. At the very least, the State should invest in understanding the amount of revenue New Mexico is being deprived of. PILT is an unreliable source of income that New Mexico counties have unfortunately become dependent on. Those closest to the land and those who use it for their livelihoods are the best stewards of such and would demonstratively make better decisions in land management efforts. 5. Do you believe immigration reform is needed? What are the important measures under current immigration law that need to be reformed? Yes, reform is needed. More importantly, we need to enforce the laws that are continuously broken and apply them honestly. Impose a more meaningful screening process. Enforce employer sanctions, prosecute those who commit immigration fraud, hold our judicial system accountable for imposing federal/state laws. Return widespread granting of authority to state and municipal law enforcement agencies to make immigration arrests. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? I would work on a number of changes and implementations of current law designed to protect our borders and the American people. For example, implement the Real ID Act, encourage use of the E-Verify program, mandate the Social Security Administration issue letters to employers when withholdings submitted under a SSAN to not match name in SSA records. There should be no amnesty made available for anyone here illegally. We also need to work on a viable guest worker program that will enable the industry to hire the necessary work force required to run a successful operation. Discussions must take place to implement a guest worker program that addresses regional/border state concerns as agriculture production and work force solutions vary from state to state. 7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? I personally feel less government on all levels would improve our agricultural industry. Clearly, the industry as a whole has developed technologies to enhance production doing more with less whether that equates to irrigation techniques, beef and dairy production, etc. Industry leaders must have representation in all levels of government that can accurately address the unique issues facing agri-business.
June/July 2018
Are you tired of the politics in Washington that dictate the way we live our lives?
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Are you exhausted with decisions made thousands of miles from home that impact our social, economic and personal values? Government now has a way of affecting everything we do whether in business, education, leisure time or even religious freedoms. It is time to address what really matters to all New Mexicans … our future!
• Let’s stop allowing the federal government to impede on our way of life • Let’s work on meaningful solutions and reforms to strengthen agriculture • Let’s improve the federal guest worker program to insure you have the employees necessary to achieve your maximum potential • Let’s eliminate over-reaching regulations that prohibit production • Let’s work on building a better New Mexico I believe God has His hand on the pulse of our nation and will be raising up leaders who will have the courage and ability to return America to the country we all knew growing up and want back again. I am that voice and that leader. Together we can work to improve New Mexico! I respectfully ask for your prayers, your vote and your support. Page 11
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June/July 2018
8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? Government is the problem and could also be the solution. Tamper our regulatory environment and insure when trade agreements are negotiated the Agricultural industry has a seat at the table. Market prices are reflected in GDP, trade negotiations, supply and demand. The scarcity and protection of water is a continual threat to agri-business. Protecting our Ag community from frivolous law suits and easing the cost of doing business in general. One of the largest issues facing New Mexico agriculture is the lack of a reliable and ready work force. Solutions can include, but are not limited to: Continuing to support technologies conducive to a productive Agricultural industry, ease the regulatory environment, - including DOT requirements – establish a guest worker program that is designed specifically for agri-business in New Mexico. 9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture: Animal Agriculture is necessary. I am proud of the advances the Ag industry has made in an effort to satisfy global warming concerns, environmental concerns, conservation efforts all while raising livestock to feed America and the world. Agricultural technology, including GMOs: Technology continues to be a driving force that moves the Ag industry forward. We are seeing the results of such in higher yields and overall production. Methane emissions are being addressed with technical research and developments resulting in safer, stronger and more environmentally friendly solutions that enhance agriculture. GMO’s have been utilized for many years and have proven to be a safe and effective ways to meet food shortages around the globe. Conventional and organic food production have easily coexisted to meet the needs.
Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities: New Mexico is and continues to be challenged by the lack infrastructure. Solutions must be developed on the state level with little or no interference from the federal government. Promoting free-market solutions and diversifying general revenue resources need to be implemented in order to meet these challenges. Energy efficiency/net metering: All industries are working to implement energy efficiencies and, in most cases, will take advantage of green energy when it is available and affordable. Net metering can be utilized as a tool to increase production and in some cases produce a return on investment for the end user. This, to me, is an individual choice as to whether or not individuals in the Ag industry want or choose to utilize such. 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? As a State Representative, the Farm Bureau members know I have always prioritized their interests, culture and way of life in the State Legislature. I have always appreciated the member involvement in the legislative process and the time members have spent insuring that I had an intimate understanding of industry challenges. I am proud to have introduced the Right to Farm Act and the Pecan Licensure Act (both signed by the Governor) in an effort to protect our Agricultural industry. The industry knows my values and my position on issues that impact their livelihoods and have looked to me as a trusted leader in Santa Fe. Growing up in rural New Mexico, I have a respect for and understanding of our land, water and family values the ranching and farming families hold dear. I want to insure these values are represented in Washington as they should and deserve to be.
U.S. Congress - Congressional District 3 Christopher Manning (L)
1. What should be done to provide ample water resources to our state’s farmers and ranchers? Living in the SW requires us to prepare for and expect droughts and reduced snow and rainfall which reduces available water resources. For the most part the government has used reservoirs as its future store of water. However, I do not feel this is the best method in NM. I would prefer water storage be concentrated in aquifers. This would lead to far less land use and water loss from evaporation during the summers. I also prefer people being able to dig their own wells without government interference. 2. The Farm Bill is vitally important to New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers. What are your thoughts regarding preservation of beneficial programs within the bill? I’m opposed to much of the farm bill out of principle. As a libertarian I prefer that markets are not distorted by government subsidies in any industry. Additionally, farmers with household incomes up to $900,000 are eligible for subsidies and more than half of all payments go to the wealthiest 15% of farms. With the federal government adding $1 trillion in debt each year it is hard to justify subsidies to very profitable farms. 3. What is your opinion of how the Endangered Species Act is being administered in New Mexico? I don’t have any information on the Endangered Species Act as it is being administered in NM and as such have no opinion. 4. Increasingly, PILT funds are becoming a gamble for states with large federal holdings. Should the federal government relinquish its lands back to New Mexico? I believe the Federal Government controls far too much land in the west and would prefer more to be relinquished back to the state or sold to private owners. 5. Do you believe immigration reform is needed? What are the important measures under current immigration law that need to be reformed?
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I do. Given the great numbers of individuals who cross the southern border illegally we should implement a program similar to Australia. If you come to the U.S. seeking asylum you are detained in Mexico until your asylum claim is adjudicated. Under current law over 80% of immigration petitioners never attend their court date after release inside the US. Also, I think we should reject asylum claims from those in Central America who do not first attempt to claim asylum at the U.S embassy in their nation, or first apply for U.S. citizenship, or who pass through multiple other countries before arrival in the U.S. Under international law if you seek asylum you are required to do so in the first nation you enter. 6. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? I believe we need a merit based immigration system like what most other countries in the world have i.e. Canada, Brazil, Mexico, New Zealand. I’d push for a greater percentage of immigrants with education or skills needed to fill the jobs of today and tomorrow and limit unskilled labor. 7. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? I believe we need to look to Israel and the Netherlands for improvement. In Israel much of their agricultural sector has installed drip systems to water their crops. While it is not practical for all crops it is something where possible should be considered. This leads to far less water use and waste and is a critical factor to consider in NM given our arid conditions. The Netherlands have shifted much of their agriculture into high tech warehouse style greenhouses allowing them to grow crops year round with increasing crop yields without the use of pesticides and herbicides. They are the second largest exporter of food by value behind only the United States and do so with 270 times less land mass. 8. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? See my response to question #7 9. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate,
June/July 2018
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what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture Agricultural technology, including GMOs Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities Energy efficiency/net metering 10. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? I grew up in rural north western NM. My grandfather raised cattle and hay. My aunt farms over 400 acres of land and sits on the local ditch board. I know what it’s like trying to farm and ranch in NM, not from
personal experience but from watching how much work they put in each year. It is a tough but extremely rewarding life and most people today don’t understand how the food they eat gets to their table. They don’t understand the 12+ hour days you put in everyday for months at a time. But I do. Theodore Roosevelt is one of my favorite presidents because of his extolling of the strenuous life. Farmers and Rancher live the strenuous life, they are connected to the land and they want to conserve it to ensure it produces for their lifetime and their children’s lifetime. I admire anyone who decides to dedicate their life to farming and ranching and I would appreciate your support.
Public Lands Commission Garrett VeneKlasen (D)
1. How can the Land Commissioner’s office help insure a successful future for New Mexico agriculture? Agriculture is one of New Mexico’s core traditional land use values and has always played a foundational economic role in the SLO’s revenue stream. The agricultural industry in NM has serious potential to grow, adapt and lead the West using new technology and forward thinking branding unique to our state. I would like to form a task force in the SLO bringing together the best and brightest agricultural minds to plan and implement new opportunities on SLO lands. 2. What is your position on public access to state trust lands? What is your position on the leaseholder’s rights to deny access to protect their business interests and investments on the leased land? Free ranging wildlife is held in a public trust. State trust lands are held in a public trust. Both the land and the wildlife should be EQUALLY accessible to all New Mexicans. As long as there is permanent public easement to a specific tract of SLO lands, the public should be able to access and enjoy those lands as long as they have a legitimate SLO pass (hunting/fishing licence or recreation pass). Furthermore, I don’t believe lessees with exclusive access to landlocked SLO lands should have exclusive use of those SLO lands. I respect the private property rights of those landowners who control access to landlocked lands, but those rights should not offer them exclusive hunting/fishing rights of the public SLO lands behind their private property. If they want to utilize them for hunting or fishing, they will have to at least allow walk-in public access to those SLO lands behind their private property. Permittees who harass or threaten permitted sportsmen/women or recreational users may be subject to losing their SLO lease if I am elected as NM Commissioner of Public Lands. 3. What is your position on the reintroduction of the Mexican Grey Wolf on state trust lands? I believe we should embrace and support the pragmatic/sensible reintroduction of Mexican grey wolves in New Mexico. I support the current policy of compensation for any losses, but we need to work to restore healthy ecosystems that include predators. Wolves that are known/proven to target livestock should be immediately removed from the landscapes they impact. Wolf numbers should be stewarded - using the best available peer-reviewed science - so they don’t adversely impact other wildlife populations. 4. Are you satisfied with the current grazing fee formula? …or do you believe that it needs to change? If you believe it needs to change, what do you want to change and why? The average private-land grazing fee in the 11 Western states (Rocky Mountain states westward) was $19.20/AUM in 2016. It ranges from $9.00 (AZ) to $24.00 (MT). NM was $14.00, per USDA statistics: https://www. nass.usda.gov/Charts_and_Maps/Grazing_Fees/gf_am.php . Sewell’s current $1.87/AUM fee is 13% of the average - $14 NM private-land fees, 31% of the NM State trust current grazing $6.19 fees; and 10 percent (.097) of the Western states’ private land average. NM’s trust land grazing fees are 42.7% of the $14 statewide NM average private land. Paying less than half what their competitors pay. As you are well aware, Commissioner Dunn raised the NM State Land Office fee from $5.99/AUM to $6.19 on Oct. 1, 2017. I’d like to hear
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from you all how this increase impacted your community. I’d also like to hear how further increases would impact the community. Grazing fees account for a small percentage of the SLO’s annual revenue stream. I’m not convinced that raising grazing fees will have a real impact on the agency’s bottom line. 5. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? I believe water usage presents the greatest area for improvement. Existing law and regulations do not go far enough to protect this precious resource. As commissioner, I’ll loudly support state policies and drive new legislation that sets a statewide standard for groundwater quality on state trust lands. Several massive aquifers need to be specifically addressed in this conversation including the Ogallala Aquifer. Another sits under Otero Mesa, which is in the process of being explored for both oil & gas resources as well as rare earth minerals. It is arguably the largest, purest, and most untapped aquifer in the Southwest. A second massive deepwater saline aquifer – one of the nation’s largest – exists in the southeast corner of the state. Because this aquifer exists beyond a depth currently regulated by state water statute, there is massive potential. There is no specific NM water law regulating nor adjudicating deep aquifer saline water in New Mexico. Solar technology now exists to desalinate water at reasonable cost, so a smart investor could come in and do just that. A third consideration also needs to be addressed in the Plains of San Agustin and the Sandia Basin. The precedent of large private water users moving vast quantities of water from one basin to another have local, regional, and even western consequences that need to be carefully addressed through planning and policy goals. As with the modernization of all SLO and State Land Office natural resource management laws and policies, the agricultural and conservation community needs to sit down and craft a complete new water framework that acts as a new and forwardthinking, conservation-minded western water model. 6. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? Access to and use of water - and protecting water quality - will be the single most important issue impacting NM agriculture. Watershed/soil/ forest restoration will play a critical role as well. 7. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture: assuming this relates to intensive factory farming, I’d like to see our agriculture in NM remain local and driven by local families, not national or international corporate interests. Agricultural technology, including GMOs: I’m personally a big fan of local, home grown, natural agricultural products. Although agricultural technology often enhances production levels, it also has the potential to quickly outcompete smaller scale local producers. Technology can be a double-edged sword. We need to proceed with caution. I believe the Land Office can better work with the industry to bring new technologies -- and the jobs that come with them -- to trust lands. We can be partners, not adversaries, as long as the decisions we make protect the smaller producers. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities: rebuilding our broken infrastructure not only creates short-term jobs, but opens
June/July 2018
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June/July 2018
opportunity to bring new revenues into these areas. I want to make NM a leader in international ecotourism and recreation which will boost rural economies significantly. Think Moab. Energy efficiency/net metering: this is fundamental to my plans for the Land Office. I will massively increase production and generation of clean energy on trust lands. There is no reason why wind and solar can’t get the same access as extractive industry when it comes to leasing on trust lands. This is NM’s future. 8. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? For the last decade, I have devoted my career to advocating for protecting traditional land use values and pragmatic public lands, water, wildlife and natural resource conservation. My unparalleled knowledge of state and federal natural resource policy and planning uniquely positions me to implement paradigm shifting changes in Western land use policy at a historic moment for national and global conservation interests. Across New Mexico there are 46 million acres of state trust lands. Beginning in the 1800’s, state trust lands were granted to states upon their entrance into the union for the sole purpose of generating income for public institutions, particularly schools. To this end, the lands were managed, leased, or sold for a range of uses, including mining, grazing, and agriculture to satisfy their fiduciary trust responsibility. However, antiquated trust responsibility perceptions and case law that governs state trust lands often constrain the ability of trust managers to adapt to new demographic and economic forces, and these pressures also bring trust management issues into the public view. These challenges create a critical need—and a real opportunity—to explore additional means of generating trust revenues that serve the trust beneficiaries while aligning trust activities with the economic futures of western communities. Progressive trust land managers must respond to these challenges with visionary new strategies and approaches. Much work needs to be done to create a substantive framework which creates a land and natural resource management model which transitions from one of consumptive use to one of sustainable use. We need a 21st century land and natural resources management vision that creates a sustainable, resilient future for our remarkable state. Then, with specific policy and legislative initiatives, the potential for state trust lands is truly limitless! I received my BA in Latin American Studies from UNM with minors in Portuguese and Spanish. I was born and raised in New Mexico and am fluent in Spanish. I have a deep appreciation and understanding of core New Mexican cultural values.
George Munoz (D)
1. How can the Land Commissioner’s office help insure a successful future for New Mexico agriculture? As a farmer and rancher, I know the risk that comes with being a producer, but it’s a way of life that was passed down to me by my father and one that I’ve passed down to my two boys. The best way I know how to ensure a prosperous future for New Mexico agriculture is to be a partner. To show up, listen, and work together to solve problems. We are a partnership and when NM AG does well, so do we. 2. What is your position on public access to state trust lands? What is your position on the lease holder’s rights to deny access to protect their business interests and investments on the leased land? Leaseholders are contractually obligated to protect the lands that they lease from the state. When it comes to public access, there needs to be a balanced approach to protecting the public’s interests and access in coordination with the leaseholder. As Land Commissioner, I would create a permitting system that ensures the public, like sportsman and leaseholders interests, are both protected and that there is communication between all parties so that state lands are protected from dangerous actors. 3. What is your position on the reintroduction of the Mexican Grey
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Wolf on state trust lands? I am against the re-introduction of the Grey Wolf. 4. Are you satisfied with the current grazing fee formula? …or do you believe that it needs to change? If you believe it needs to change, what do you want to change and why? I believe that we should explore how we can make the grazing fee formula more responsive to changing conditions such as periods of droughts or when leaseholders make improvements to the land by drilling water wells. 5. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? New Mexico agriculture is a $2.5 billion industry with over twentyfour thousand farms across the state. I don’t believe thee figures are widely known outside of our community or industry. The industry could improve this by focusing on more marketing and better messaging as it relates to farmers and ranchers being some of the best conservationists for New Mexico’s public lands. 6. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? The drought that New Mexico is the primary issue facing agriculture in New Mexico. It impacts farmers and rancher’s decisions to scale up or pull back on production which affects commodity prices and the ability of producers to earn a living. The solution is rain, but if that doesn’t come in time, I will work with the AG community to work with our members of Congress to secure additional funding to help alleviate effects from the drought. 7. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture – I’m for it. Agricultural technology, including GMOs – I’m for it. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities - We need more rural insftrstructure especially better roads and broadband access. Energy efficiency/net metering – We can always do better when it comes to being energy efficient and my philosophy when wit comes to net metering is that it needs to be win-win. 8. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? Thanks for the opportunity to answer your questions. I’d like to share a little bit about myself. I grew up and live in Gallup, NM, and for the last ten years, I have served the New Mexico Senate representing the counties of Cibola, McKinley and San Juan. I’m also a sixth generation New Mexican, and I’m a rancher, farmer, and small business owner, husband to Sharmyn and father to Zane and Landon. I hope to start a conversation about how I will approach working with Farm Bureau members on the management of grazing on State Trust Lands given the current drought situation. If elected Commissioner of Public Lands, I will work with you to find solutions to minimize impacts to your operation. I will ask State Land Office staff to identify the necessary resources and effective strategies that can be combined with your resources and strategies to keep both your livestock and the land healthy. For example, I know that water availability for animals grazing on State Trust lands will be one of many factors to be considered during the drought. We are in this together. Many of your members already generously provide water for both wildlife and cattle. We will further collaborate on when and how many animals can be grazing a parcel of land and will always strive to keep cattle grazing as a viable option. Many New Mexicans do not know that the New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands is charged with generating revenue for public schools and hospitals now, and for many years to come. To do this effectively, we must properly maintain these lands, so they will continue to provide future revenue. I know this can only be accomplished if we recognize State Trust Land grazing lessees as vital long-term partners and ensure that they are treated with fairness, trust, and respect. As your next Commissioner of Public Lands, you will have a true partner at the State Land Office.
June/July 2018
Patrick Lyons (R)
practices applicable to them. • Partnering with Jornada and NRCS to better support grazing lessees. • Applying for grants to incentivize and enable the development of grazing management plans. • Partnering with Capulin Volcano National Monument to facilitate their grazing management plan with adjacent state trust lessees.
2. What is your position on public access to state trust lands? What is your position on the lease holder’s rights to deny access to protect their business interests and investments on the leased land? Public access is not allowed through private property unless permission from the private property owner is granted. If the lease holder’s property is damaged, then the Land Office and lease holder need to work together. Access now is for hunting with a valid NM hunting license during season.
2. What is your position on public access to state trust lands? What is your position on the lease holder’s rights to deny access to protect their business interests and investments on the leased land? State trust lands are public lands, but the primary purpose of these lands is to generate revenue in a sustainable manner for the 21 beneficiaries named in the constitution. To that end, when land is leased to an individual or company for a specific purpose, such as rangeland for cattle, the lessee is financially liable for maintaining the land in the conditions specified in the lease. This particular issue is a great example of the very polarizing nature of land issues in our state. And as I explained to the outdoor sportsmen’s organizations at a Las Cruces forum in early March, the rights of the lessee have priority over requests by secondary users to use certain tracts of lands on a short term permit basis because of this financial liability held by the grazing lessee. The land office should provide leadership in bringing users to the table to hammer out a compromise regarding access and liability that does not over burden or penalize the lessee.
1. How can the Land Commissioner’s office help insure a successful future for New Mexico agriculture? By having a good, open working relationship with the lease holder and keeping grazing fees reasonable.
3. What is your position on the reintroduction of the Mexican Grey Wolf on state trust lands? The job of the Commissioner of Public Lands is to generate revenue for the 23 beneficiaries. Having the reintroduction of the Mexican Grey Wolf would hinder the ability to generate these revenues. Keep the wolf where the limited reintroductions are now and don’t expand. 4. Are you satisfied with the current grazing fee formula? …or do you believe that it needs to change? If you believe it needs to change, what do you want to change and why? Yes, during my time as Land Commissioner the grazing fees were going to increase 16% and I froze it at 8% to help protect state trust land. The Land Commissioner can make these adjustments when necessary, while being open and transparent. 5. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? Supporting pro-agriculture candidates that believe agriculture is one of the most important industries in the state. Working with everyone through negotiation not litigation. 6. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? Drought. We need rain. 7. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture – needed to feed the population Agricultural technology, including GMOs – moving fast and need to be competitive Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities – essential to producers of agricultural products Energy efficiency/net metering – always need reliable and affordable energy The New Mexico constitutional duty of the Commissioner of Public Lands is to generate revenue for the 23 beneficiaries in a sustainable way. I generated $4 Billion for education in the 8 years I was Land Commissioner, on a flat budget with every dollar accounted for. 8. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? I am a life long farmer and rancher and member of the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau for 40 years.
Stephanie Garcia Richard (D)
1. How can the Land Commissioner’s office help insure a successful future for New Mexico agriculture? New Mexico’s current multitude of challenges makes active stewardship of our state trust lands not only important but critical to the continuance of agriculture in New Mexico. These challenges include: drought, critical water shortage, risk of catastrophic wildfires, rising temperatures, invasive species, and land use legacies. Some opportunities to meet these challenges include working with lessees to select sustainable practices by: • Work with applicants and lessees to adopt the best land management
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3. What is your position on the reintroduction of the Mexican Grey Wolf on state trust lands? Because a healthy and balanced ecosystem should be a priority of this office, I support the reintroduction of species to their native habitat including the Mexican Grey Wolf so long as the process is done in a responsible manner. 4. Are you satisfied with the current grazing fee formula? …or do you believe that it needs to change? If you believe it needs to change, what do you want to change and why? I am in general satisfied with the grazing fee formula structure as it protects lessees from fluctuating market prices impacting their ability to maintain their lease. I know the 2017 increase of fees by the current commissioner took some lessees by surprise, but the overall level appears to be acceptable. One of the potential changes I would discuss with grazing experts, would be to include lease conditions that incentivize sustainable grazing practices. 5. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why? Although agriculture has been a way of life in New Mexico for generations, like everything else in this changing world, today’s modern agriculture is facing many challenges. Areas where the diverse industry can improve vary, depending on what form of agriculture and location. But a few nearly universal issues remain, including water resource management and sustainable land use practices. But possibly even more important is public perceptions of agriculture. A disconnected public from the source of their food is a dangerous challenge to the industry, especially as we face climate change and water shortages, compounded by a growing distrust of new technology. 6. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? As I mentioned in question above, New Mexico farmers and ranchers are facing several problems, the largest and most important remains access to water. There are no easy solutions to this problem, as it appears drought is the new norm, and water scarcity will continue to grow as a problem. As a legislator, I have been an active advocate for protecting our state’s water rights, and helped find new solutions to sustainable water use. I will continue that advocacy in the land office. 7. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture: As a young child I would spend days on our family’s ranch in southern San Miguel County--I’ve even helped with branding. Animal agriculture is an important component of our rural
June/July 2018
economy and the New Mexico way of life. Agricultural technology, including GMOs: With the ever increasing dangers of a stressed climate and perpetual drought, we need to use every tool in our tool box to meet our food needs. I believe appropriate use of new technology has to be part of the solution, doing more with less and protecting our national food security. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities: I represent a largely rural legislative district in the state legislature and have used the vast majority of my capital outlay to support infrastructure projects such as water systems, acequias, and roads. I have also used my office to advocate for my constituents with local county governments for infrastructure improvements and with the federal government for constituent needs. I will continue that advocacy in the state land office. Energy efficiency/net metering: I support the right of consumers to use net metering to lower their overall electric utility bills and in my time as a legislator have voted to give consumers and businesses more power to pursue these technologies. 9. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? As a legislator I have developed a reputation as someone who actively
supports my constituents. I have been a strong advocate for the farmers and cattle growers in my district, showing up, listening and learning about their issues when they felt their lifestyle was under threat. New Mexico’s agricultural has been a part of my life from the very beginning. I am a native New Mexican, born in Tucumcari. As a young child I would spend days on my grandfather’s ranch in southern San Miguel County. I’m intimately familiar with the agriculture lifestyle in rural New Mexico and have even helped clean the acequia in the springtime. Later my family moved to Silver City where ranching remains a big part of the lifestyle there. I eventually married another native New Mexican whose family maintains ranchlands in Mora County. Agriculture in New Mexico is different than agriculture in other places. And it is special. We face unique challenges, and many times we have found our own way of meeting those challenges. This gives me confidence that agriculture will rise up to meet the challenges we face today and continue to thrive in our state. However, with the threats we face from climate change and water scarcity, we will have to partner to find new and innovative ways to support agriculture, while encouraging long term sustainable land use practices. As Land Commissioner I look forward to working with the industry to grow and thrive.
Attorney General Michael Hendricks (R)
1. How would you insure that New Mexico’s agricultural community is afforded full representation in the endangered species designation process? First, I would work more closely with the affected communities to make sure that their concerns were heard and if the implementation is adverse in a prohibitable way, then the office could use a defensive posture to ensure fair representation (i.e. the Mexican gray wolf designation and release). Second, I would want to be more proactive about the listing of new endangered species within the community to determine and bring to light the actual effect of the listing and protection. 2. How would you protect New Mexico’s water resources for our state’s farmers and ranchers? First, I would work to breakdown the suits that are currently in play and choose representation, either within the OAG or external, that is experienced and prepared to address the issues at hand (i.e. Rio Grande Compact Litigation). Second, I would forge the proper coalitions with the different water districts to ensure that we do not run into the same problem we have had with the litigations. Third, we must proactively work with the community to determine the needs, uses, and potential changes in use of water in specified areas. 3. How will you protect the rights of private property owners in light of hunters and fishermen who want to legalize trespassing? Private property is sacrosanct. I will work as I am able to protect the rights of property owners to decided and allow or disallow anyone they choose on their property. The AG does not generally prosecute cases for trespassing. 4. How can the Attorney General’s office help insure a successful future for New Mexico agriculture? Making sure that our water is protected, and the natural resources are considered in NM. Not allowing only high dollar yield crops with greater water use but encouraging consideration of lower water use agriculture. 5. What should the United States do to change its immigration system? If elected, how do you see your office engaging in the issue? The OAG does not exert any direct power over the Federal immigration system. I am a practicing immigration attorney and as such I will be happy to weigh in on the fixes that are possible, but my time will be primarily focused on NM for New Mexicans. 6. What areas do you believe the agriculture industry needs improvement and why?
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
All industries need to be more cognizant of our water issues. Agriculture already works hard at reducing its consumption; however, we must work even harder to be ready for the future as well. 7. What do you consider to be the major issue facing New Mexico agriculture at this time? What do you feel is the solution? I believe that our water resources are the greatest threat to sustainability for agriculture in NM. We must work out a workable mechanism by which we can satisfy the water needs of the various agricultural and livestock industries while being cognizant of the future ramifications. This will not be easy, but nothing that is worth fighting for is easy. NM and the future of our cornerstone industries, agriculture and livestock, are worth fighting for; and, I will fight! 8. What is your opinion on the following issues? And if appropriate, what are your possible solutions/ideas? Please be concise. Animal agriculture: I grew up milking cows by hand, so I always have believed in this industry. More importantly, the fact that the animal ag industry is one of the cornerstones of the NM economy it must be preserved. However, we must always work to be responsible with our uses of natural resources and think to the future. Agricultural technology, including GMOs: I understand the purposes of wanting to make crops/ag more productive and resilient; however, I am not a proponent of GMOs. There are definitely some Ag technologies that are completely necessary and invaluable, but we must be cognizant of how some of these technologies affect the consumer. Everything done responsibly. Rural infrastructure: roads, rail, broadband, utilities: With the advent of artifacts such as technologies, we have seen this world become a smaller place. We must help rural areas with access to modern day essentials that facilitate getting their product grown and to market. We must temper this concept of modernization through technology with the concept of private property. Energy efficiency/net metering: According to what I understand, net metering use of technology could reduce the amount of overhead for various energy companies and, in turn, reduce the cost of the energy itself. I am completely in favor of this technology. I believe that we should be exploring alternate energy sources while understanding that we must use what we have to use now. 9. What else would you like to share about yourself with our members? My very first job, and most of my childhood, was spent in agriculture. From planting alfalfa to milking cows by hand to sewing and reaping all sorts of vegetables, I understand the issues and will work hard to help the ag industry in this state and country. I will be your advocate in Santa Fe to protect and defend this industry.
June/July 2018
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
June/July 2018
An Ag Awareness Success Story By Dalene Ho dnett, NMF&LB Director of Communications The National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization (NAITCO) and National Grange have selected New Mexico rancher and educator Margaret ‘Margie’ McKeen as the winner of its Agriculture Advocate Award for 2018. McKeen won the award for her efforts to establish New Mexico’s largest and longest running agricultural event called ‘McKeen Ranch Days,’ an annual program held at her ranch where more than 30 teachers and 450 students learn about animal agriculture and life on a working ranch. They learn how to milk a real cow, how to make butter and where honey comes from. In addition, they learn about the compartments of a cow’s stomach and the nutrients cows absorb by observing a cannulated cow provided by the USDA Research Center. They also learn about how and why cattle are branded and dehorned. “I’m so excited and honored to be chosen for this award,” says Margie. “I never expected to be recognized for my ag advocacy efforts, I just love sharing agriculture with students. This a group effort with people who are willing to contribute and volunteer. There were many agricultural and natural resource agencies who were a great help. Of course, the Cooperative Extension Service has been a big help over the years. I am just one of many that see the need to remind people not to take food for granted.” “The impact that Margie McKeen has had over the last 56 years as a 4-H volunteer with 12 to 14 students in her group and 25 years of planning ag days is too immense to calculate,” says Traci Curry, Southern Region Director for New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom. “Her impact will be felt for generations and we already see many of the students she works with going into agricultural careers. Margie McKeen is a true ag advocate!” “Margie McKeen is the perfect recipient for this year’s Agriculture Advocate Award,” Betsy Huber, President of America’s oldest agriculture advocacy organization and award sponsor, the National Grange. “From her imagination sprung a program that has helped tens of thousands of students and families understand and appreciate agriculture. She has put a face to the producer Discover the Power and allowed children and adults alike to know the compassion Beneath Your Plants for their animals and their craft. Not just the children, but all of agriculture has benefited from the work of amazing volunteer educators like Margie, and we are so proud to honor these amazing individuals for their work.” In 1993, McKeen began visiting a local (K-12) school. She would start these visits beginning on National Ag Day and continue with weekly visits through Earth Day. During each school visit, McKeen would conduct an agriculture lesson, often the type available through Agriculture in the Classroom. The final visit celebrated on Earth Day culminated with an Agriculture Day in which she would bring farm animals to school and route students through 10 stations about local agOur Mesa Verde New Mexico Humates will: riculture production. In 1998, McKeen took her volunteerism • Improve soil health and nitrogen utilization to a whole new level by creating ‘McKeen Ranch Days’ because • Improve moisture management • Increase nutrient uptake and increase yield she wanted to involve more schools. • Stimulate microbial activity It attracts participation from schools within a 200-mile radi• Increase stress resistance us of the ranch in New Mexico and Arizona. Partners involved in McKeen Ranch Days include: New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension and College of Agriculture, New Mexico Department of Agriculture, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage www.Humates.com Museum, USDA Cotton Ginning Research, New Mexico AgriFor your local dealer culture in the Classroom and the U.S. Forest Service. please contact us at 505-362-4205 McKeen will be presented with the award at an awards banAdvancing Sustainable Agriculture quet Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at the National Agriculture in Naturally the Classroom National Conference in Portland, Maine. Page 20
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
June/July 2018
New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau 2018 Summer Conference, June 19-21 Isleta Resort & Casino Tuesday, June 19th 2:00 pm Welcome 2:15 pm “Know Thy Neighbor Understanding Personality Types” Tom Darling, Division Manager, Albuquerque Public Service University 5:30 pm Dinner on Your Own
11:00 am “Preparing for the 2019 Legislative Session” Matt Gonzales, NMF&LB Director of Governmental Affairs 12:00 Lunch with FBFS, Joint Keynote Speaker 1:45 pm Board Bus for a Private Tour of the Rio Grande Zoo
Wednesday, June 20th 7:00 am PRF & Crop Insurance Breakfast sponsored by FBFS
or 3:00 - 6:00 pm Golf with FBFS
8:00 am “Engaging a Younger Generation” Shannon Norris, Teaching Assistant, Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications, Texas A&M
Thursday, June 21st 8:00 am Breakfast
9:00 am “Educating Consumers Using Words We All Understand” Dr. Paige Pratt
6:30 Dinner and Talent Showcase
9:00 am Candidate Debate for Gubenatorial and Land Commissioner Candidates 11:00 am Conclusion
10:00 am Break
12:00 pm County President’s Lunch (by invite only)
10:15 am “NMDA Update - Hemp, Pecan Weevils, Agri-Future Educational Institute” Brad Lewis, NMDA Division Director, Entomology and Nursery Industries
1:30 pm Goat Raiser’s Roundtable
1:30 pm Pesticide CEU Course
The host hotel is the Isleta Resort & Casino. Rooms are available starting at the discounted rate of $93.00 + taxes until June 1. For reservations call 505-724-3800 and mention New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau or visit https://tinyurl.com/NMFLB-SC
NMF&LB 2018 Summer Conference Registration Form
Names for badges:____________________________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________________________________ Email address:_______________________________________________________________ County:____________________________________Phone:___________________________ #___Early Registration $165 after June 1 - $215 (One person - all inclusive) #___Child Registration $65 after June 1- $80 (age 6-15, under 6 are free)
#___High School/ Collegiate Farm Bureau Member $110 (CFB membership must be current) after June 1 - $135 #___Additional Wednesday Dinner tickets $50 #___Additional Wednesday Lunch tickets $30 #___Additional Thursday Breakfast tickets $25
Total Due:_______________Check #:_____________
Zoo_________ or Golf___________
Mail to: NMF&LB 2220 N. Telshor Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 88011
Questions? Call Theresa Widner at 575-532-4703 or 575-312-6197 theresaw@nmflb.org
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
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Po Box 985 216 Warm Springs Blvd. Elephant Butte, NM 87935
575.744.5140 FAX 575.744.5121 www.plazarealtynm.com
C.O.R.E. Larry G. Marshall, AFIS Agent, Financial Advisor, Registered Representative Dexter (575) 734-5415 | Roswell (575) 623-1020 | Artesia (575) 746-6544
www.AgentLarryMarshall.com
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Creative Organic Recycling Enterprises
Consultations & Home Set-Up • Redworms for Home Composting • Compost Instruction • Worm Castings
Sam McCarthy SFcompost@yahoo.com | 505-310-3971 Do It With Worms on Facebook
June/July 2018
Non-profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Las Cruces, N.M. Permit No.2093
2220 N. Telshor Las Cruces, NM 88011
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU Since 1917 . . . a Leader in New Mexico
ISSN 0028-6192 2220 N. TELSHOR BLVD. • LAS CRUCES, NM 88011 575.532.4700 • FAX: 575.532.4710 PUBLISHER: New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau New Mexico Farm & Ranch is published monthly. Yearly subscription is $24.00. New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau members receive a complimentary subscription with yearly dues. U.S. Postage PAID, bulk rate, PERMIT #31, Las Cruces, NM 88001. FORWARDING/RETURN POSTAGE GUARANTEED, ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED. OFFICERS Craig Ogden President, Loving Larry Reagan 1st Vice President, Ft. Sumner Boe Lopez 2nd Vice President, Springer Chad Smith Chief Executive Officer
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Burl Brown, Des Moines Bud Deerman, La Mesa Jim Ellett, Hope Duane Frost, Claunch Gary Hathorn, Flora Vista Leon Hemann, McDonald Jay Hill, Mesilla Park George Jackson, Lordsburg John Jackson, Lake Arthur Deena Kinman, Elida Matt Lansford, Clovis Donald Martinez, El Rito Tommy Ortiz, Las Vegas Troy Sauble, Maxwell Casey Spradley, Cuba John Sweetser, Deming Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner Anita Hand, Chair Women’s Leadership Committee Andy Ellett, Chair Young Farmer & Rancher Committee
REGIONAL DIRECTORS Tanner Anderson, Albuquerque Benjie Segovia, Las Cruces Valerie Huerta, Santa Cruz Director of Organization Matthew Gonzales Director of Government Affairs Breanda Logan Northern Director, Ag in the Classroom Traci Curry Southern Director, Ag in the Classroom Francisco Hatay Marketing Coordinator Dalene Hodnett Director of Communications and Media Relations Cecilia Diaz-Johnson Bookkeeper Theresa Widner Director of Membership Services
June/July 2018