Policy Issue Committees
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) has four issue committees through which its members and allies discuss and develop policy positions and grassroots advocacy strategies. These committees have monthly conference calls and meet at both of NSAC’s annual face-to-face gatherings.
Conservation, Energy and Environment
The Conservation, Energy and Environment Committee helps formulate policy options and positions on the broad array of agricultural conservation programs, renewable energy policy and environmental policy issues.
Committee Chairs: Brad Redlin, Izaak Walton League of America; Duane Sand, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
Marketing, Food Systems and Rural Development
The Marketing, Food Systems and Rural Development Committee explores alternative and value-added marketing channels for sustainably-produced farm goods as well as economic strategies that build the vitality and sustainability of rural communities.
Committee chairs: Jim Worstell, Delta Land and Community; Terry VanDerPol, Land Stewardship Project
Research, Extension and Education
The Research and Extension Committee focuses on the USDA and other public agricultural research and extension programs and land-grant university accountability activities.
Committee Chairs: Brise Tencer, Union of Concerned Scientists
Farming Opportunities and Fair Competition
The Farming Opportunity and Renewal Committee works on commodity program reform, farm credit, beginning farmer and rancher provisions, federal crop insurance and revenue insurance programs, tax policy, trade issues, and agribusiness concentration. These issues are considered in respect to their impact on small and medium-sized family farms and the broader application of sustainable farming practices and systems.
Committee Chairs: Traci Bruckner, Center for Rural Affairs; Brett Melone, Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association; Becky Ceartes, RAFI-USA