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Fairmont, Minn. - This week, representatives from Kahler Automation joined agricultural industry leaders in Washington, D.C., as part of the annual Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) Hill Visit.
The event brings together ag retail professionals from across the country to meet with members of Congress and their staff to discuss policies impacting the agricultural supply chain.
“With today’s volatility in the ag economy, it’s critical that companies like Kahler have a seat at the table to advocate for policies that support our customers,” said Austin Benes, vice president of sales for Kahler Automation. “ARA provides a strong, non-partisan platform for the industry to focus on policy over politics.”
The discussions on Capitol Hill centered around several priorities. These policies included advancing a modernized Farm Bill that protects farmers’ access to essential crop inputs and precision agriculture technologies, supporting science-based regulatory oversight of pesticides and reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens that can disrupt the timely delivery of inputs during critical planting windows.
Industry leaders also emphasized the importance of strengthening the agricultural supply chain through investments in transportation infrastructure, expanding access to rural capital and credit programs, supporting workforce development in rural communities and promoting energy and trade policies that keep American agriculture competitive.
Kahler’s Industry Relations Manager, Amanda Philipp, also joined Benes on the Hill to discuss the key issues impacting ag retailers and the farmers they serve.
“Agricultural retailers play a critical role in supporting American farmers. We see the value in ensuring they can continue delivering essential crop inputs, services and technology solutions to farmers when they need them most," Philipp said. “Being a member of ARA and participating in these events gives us the opportunity to share firsthand perspectives and advocate for policies that help our customers operate efficiently and stay competitive.”
Kahler Automation’s participation reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to advocating for the ag retailers and agribusinesses it serves across the country.
“Our customers are on the front lines of the agricultural supply chain,” Benes said. “Being part of conversations on Capitol Hill helps ensure ag retailers have a voice in discussions impacting the future of the industry.”
