RMFU Members Visit Lawmakers in Denver

Members of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union came to Denver Wednesday, January 30, to talk with government officials about rural concerns, agriculture, and pending legislation. Participants came from as far as San Luis Valley and Steamboat Springs. In the morning, they were joined by Colorado Ag Commissioner John Stulp, lawmakers, and representatives of the Governor’s office. Commissioner Stulp exchanged views with members on subjects as diverse as Bonny Reservoir, animal ID, and funding for important new programs.

RMFU President Kent Peppler assured the commissioner that RMFU deeply appreciated his work on behalf of family farmers and ranchers. “Your office has been a pleasure to work with,” Peppler said, “and we look forward the coming legislative year.” Senator Jim Isgar came by to discuss energy legislation, and Senator Gail Schwartz, as well as Representative Marsha Looper, joined the group for lunch and conversation about rural health and education.

The afternoon included meetings with Peter Groff, President of the State Senate, Andrew Romanoff, Speaker of the State House, and Heidi van Genderen, Gov. Ritter’s Climate Change Advisor. RMFU Board member Monte Niebur (Akron, Colo.) complimented Groff, Schwartz, and Romanoff on their successful efforts to address our decaying rural education programs. Board member Ken Anderson (Center, Colo.) thanked Sen. Schwartz for leading the successful initiative to replace the oldest school in Colorado, in the San Luis Valley, with a modern facility.

“It was a good day’s work,” President Peppler said at the end of the day. “It’s important that Colorado lawmakers associate faces and people with rural issues. RMFU’s Legislative Day builds bridges that help us all reach our goals for the future of Colorado and our children.”