Wakefield Pork Visits The Hill
On March 11, 2026, Alison Rahn and Mike Mulder had the opportunity to participate in the MPPA (Minnesota Pork Producer Association) Capitol Hill visit day. The purpose of the day is to visit State Representatives and represent the Pork industry.
The day started with a briefing session. It would be a hectic day of brief meeting times because the State Senate was in session. We were briefed on the schedule and main topics. The focus was on:
Animal Health and Well-Being: MPPA does not support any new regulatory agency or oversite entity that makes addressing the inhumane treatment of animals beyond the scope already outlined for the Minnesota Board of Animal Health.
Livestock and Manure Management: MPPA supports all incentive based programs, loans, or grants enabling farmers to continue expanding their use of best management practices to protect their land, air, and water.
Permitting Reform: MPPA supports all work to ensure a timely and predictable permitting process that is transparent, rules based on science, and that upholds our strong environmental protection.
Taxes and Business Environment: MPPA supports full conformity with the federal estate tax code. The Minnesota Estate Tax continues to present challenges to family farms.
They met with Glenn Gruenhagen. Glenn is a State Senator, District 17. Glenn said he was raised on a Dairy farm and loves to talk about Agricultural issues. We focused on the Tax and Business Environment. He agrees we do not need any new regulations and need lower expenses. He finished our conversation by saying, “I want you to know, I Love Pork.”
Then, they met with Bill Weber. Bill is a State Senator, District 21, from Luverne, MN. Bill is retiring soon. They thanked him for his service and his support of the Pork industry over the years. The conversation went very well. They discussed tax issues and how difficult and expensive it is for new young farmers to become pork producers in Minnesota. He is a strong advocate of the Pork industry and agreed that making it an easier process will help us stay strong and grow. He was happy to have met, and he reiterated the fact that making our voices heard does make a difference.
Lastly, they met Marj Fogelman. Marj is a MN State Representative, District 21B from Fulda, MN. She is also a strong supporter of the Pork industry. We talked about Animal Health and Well-Being issues and how Minnesota does not need the creation of the Companion Animal Board. We just don’t need to invite the additional regulation it may bring. Marj will continue to be a strong advocate for pork producers and help to keep our industry moving forward in MN.
The day was very positive. It was interesting and exciting to be in the Capitol and see how interested in learning about important topics our politicians can be.
They are thankful for the opportunity to participate in the MPPA Capitol Hill Day, and truly hope their team made a positive impact.