Each year, RV and NOFA-VT invite our farmer members and ally organizations to learn and exchange about the legislative process, advocacy and policy during the Spring legislative session. This event series offers farmers and the agrarian community at large - homesteaders, gardeners, (urban) farmers, medicine makers, and food activists alike  - opportunities to speak with lawmakers, voice their real life issues and to learn more about the legislative process. This in person event at the State House includes a policy briefing and advocacy training with RV, NOFA-VT and allies, the option to testify (in-person or remotely), the chance to meet and greet with your legislators, as well as a tour of the building. To make this event accessible to all, stipends are available for activists! RSVP required.  New! Can’t make it in person? You can livestream the event on Youtube (registration still required).

Tuesday, February 21st

Vermont and “Payments for Ecosystem Services” - What Structural Reforms are Needed to Advance Functional Ecosystems and Farm Viability?
Farmers desire better programmatic solutions to support and incentivize regenerative farm and forestry practices. After the Payment for Ecosystem Services and Soil Health Working Group concluded their work - what can be done now to improve Vermont’s landscape, field and forests and the livelihoods of those who provide that care? Register now, show up or speak to what is and is not working for you as a future, beginning, transitioning, or retiring farmer and share your ideas about what could be different and better - be the change! 

RSVP Required for Any Portion of Tuesday, Feb. 21st Event

Schedule of Events

9:00am - Arrival, Introductions, & Priorities
10:00am - Advocacy Training & Statehouse Tour
11:00am - Senate Ag Testimony
Noon - Meet & Greet Legislators
1:00pm - House Ag Testimony

Important Note: You are more than welcome to attend the day's events without an obligation to testify. If, however, you are planning to attend the day's events and are not choosing to testify, you may not be able to listen to testimony due to capacity limits in the committee rooms.