Leaders from the American Feed Industry Association traveled to Washington this week to advocate for livestock feed industry priorities during meetings with lawmakers and federal officials while also installing new organizational leadership for the coming year.
According to the association, AFIA board members met with congressional offices and administration officials to discuss policy issues affecting feed manufacturers, livestock producers and agricultural supply chains. Topics included agricultural labor, feed ingredient regulation, animal health and international trade.
Board members emphasized the importance of maintaining efficient regulatory systems and stable market conditions for the U.S. feed sector, which supports domestic livestock, poultry and pet food production.
The association said labor availability remained another major issue during meetings on Capitol Hill, particularly for feed manufacturing and transportation operations that continue facing workforce shortages.
In addition to advocacy meetings, AFIA installed new leadership during its spring board meetings.
Mark Poeschl, president and chief operating officer of Furst-McNess Company, was named AFIA board chair. Poeschl succeeds outgoing chair Dan Meagher of Novus International, Inc."I step into the role of AFIA Board chair with both energy and a strong sense of responsibility at a pivotal moment for food and agriculture,” said Poeschl. “As our industry navigates shifting global dynamics, changing market expectations and ongoing supply chain challenges, AFIA is well positioned to lead with clarity and purpose. With the engagement of our members, the expertise of our staff and a shared commitment to our Four Promises, we will continue to advance smart policy, strengthen resilience and support a competitive, sustainable future for animal food. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this industry."
The organization plans to continue focusing on regulatory and economic issues affecting feed manufacturers and animal agriculture.
Source: AFIA, "AFIA Board Advocates for Feed Industry Issues on Capitol Hill, Installs New Leadership"