(ST. PAUL) – This week, the finance and policy divisions of the Senate Agriculture, Rural Development, and Housing Committee held joint committee hearings in Clearwater and Crookston. The hearings, chaired by Senator Bill Weber (R-Luverne) and Senator Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake), were an opportunity for constituents to hear from and speak directly with legislators regarding agricultural-related policy issues.

In addition to testimony from the public, the committee heard from area farmers, ag businesspeople, and members of advocacy organizations. Finally, the committee toured a farm in the Clearwater area, Crookston’s American Crystal Sugar Company factory, and the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI) in Crookston.

“Our farmers have had a tough go of it this year, and we want to know how we can be helpful to them,” said Senator Mike Goggin (R-Red Wing). “They are essential to our economy and way of life here in Minnesota. We owe them our support. Thank you to everyone who came out to speak with us. Your feedback is essential to our work back at the Capitol.”