Policy

Grassroots Advocacy

Successful government affairs advocacy programs require three essential components:

  • Direct lobbying of policymakers and regulators.
  • Political involvement (IrrigationPAC).
  • A strong grassroots program.

The Irrigation Association works hard to grow each of these components of our advocacy program, but we need our members’ help to succeed.

 

Regardless of company type or size — or whether you work in agriculture, turf/landscape or golf irrigation — raise your voice on behalf of the industry.

 

Become a Key Contact

Key contacts focus on developing close, personal relationships with elected officials at the state and federal level. If you already have this type of relationship with your representatives, becoming a key contact is easy. If not, IA has tools and resources to help you raise your visibility, benefiting you, your company and the entire industry.

 

Attend IA’s Legislative Conference

IA’s Legislative Conference brings industry leaders together in Washington, D.C. each year to promote efficient irrigation and directly advocate on our industry’s behalf with Congress and the Administration. The Legislative Conference provides a forum for IA members to speak with one voice about the topics that really matter to the irrigation industry, including the Farm Bill, WaterSense, water-use research and other issues.

 

Host a Site Visit

Help policymakers understand the critical role our industry plays in the economy, and in preserving and protecting water supplies. Site visits — tours of a manufacturing floor, a research and development facility, a farm, a golf course or even a complex landscape irrigation system — educate decision makers about the importance of efficient irrigation, while fostering closer relationships with your elected representatives.

 

Stay Informed

Participate in IA’s quarterly government affairs webinars for regular updates on state and federal issues affecting the irrigation industry. Plan to attend the government affairs briefing at the Irrigation Show to learn how you can help IA advance the industry’s agenda.

 

Stay in Contact

Nurture relationships with your federal and state representatives. Easy ways to stay in contact include:

  • Send an e-mail using IA’s Legislative Action Center.
  • Attend a town hall meeting in your city or state.
  • Visit your representatives in their district or state offices.

For more information about getting involved at the grassroots level, including help becoming a key contact or scheduling a site visit, contact us.