Lillian Ostendorf, western region representative for the American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee and Montana Farm Bureau member, recently had the opportunity to meet with all three of Montana’s elected officials in Washington, D.C.
“As part of our Women’s Leadership Committee meeting in Washington, D.C., and our push for ag advocacy, we were encouraged to schedule visits on Capitol Hill,” Ostendorf said. “I visited with all of our Congressmen about taxation, and how permanent repeal of the death tax is so important to family farmers and ranchers. Senator Daines talked about cattle prices, and we discussed the necessity of getting our beef into other countries. All of our Congressmen wanted to know about the effect of fires on our ranchers. We briefly covered the farm bill, although at this point, they don’t know everything in it. But we agreed crop insurance consistency was essential. I also had the opportunity to thank Representative Gianforte for keeping funding for Fort Keogh Range and Research Station. We are very fortunate as Montanans to have two senators and a representative who support agriculture.”
American Farm Bureau’s strong push is for immigration reform, and WLC members were encouraged to discuss this with their Congressional leaders, as well.
Ostendorf, a Powderville rancher, noted the WLC board took time to lay wreaths on the graves at Arlington Cemetery. “This was to represent all Farm Bureau women and show our respect and appreciation for our military and the sacrifices they have made and continue to make,” she said.
In addition, the WLC committee selected the Accurate Ag Book for 2018.  The selection will be revealed soon, so check back to find out which great book made the cut!