Dear Natural Resource Sector Stakeholders,

In a recent letter addressed to Congress, the Biden Administration, key Congressional Committees, and Maine's Congressional Delegation, Governor Mills outlined Maine's priorities for the forthcoming farm bill. This letter, dated August 30, 2023, underscores the significance of the Farm Bill in supporting Maine's natural resource industries.

Key Highlights from Governor Mills' Letter:

• Comprehensive and Equitable Farm Bill: Governor Mills expressed her support for a comprehensive and equitable Farm Bill that addresses critical agriculture, nutrition, forestry, and conservation programs. Sustainability and Climate Resilience: The letter advocates for increased funding for farmland conservation programs, climate-smart agriculture initiatives, assistance for climate resiliency projects, and measures to promote sustainability and climate adaptation in agriculture and forestry.
• PFAS Support: Governor Mills stressed the need for Federal action to support PFAS-impacted farmers and communities, including establishing a Federal safety net for affected farmers and enabling support through existing federal programs.
• Local and Regional Food Systems: The Governor supports USDA programming that enhances access to food, investments in land access and retention, continued support for land grant institutions, and increased funding for programs that promote local and regional food markets.
• Forestry and Conservation: Governor Mills advocates for full funding for forest conservation programs, increased support for the Forest Inventory and Analysis Program, cross-boundary wildfire mitigation, and measures to enhance forest sustainability and carbon sequestration.
• Nutrition and Hunger: Recommendations include increasing benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), supporting the Universal School Meals Program, and sustaining initiatives that address food insecurity.

This list of priorities was developed through a thorough and inclusive process, including statewide surveys, listening sessions, and roundtables involving multiple state agencies and stakeholders across Maine and the northeast region.

Governor Mills expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts of Maine's Congressional Delegation and her desire for a Farm Bill that addresses the needs of Maine's residents and contributes to the nation's well-being.

Read the letter (PDF) at:  https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/2023-08/8.30.23_Maine%20Farm%20Bill%20Priorities.pdf.

Your insights and advocacy are crucial in shaping policies that impact our state. We encourage you to stay informed and engaged in discussions related to the Farm Bill. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to discuss this further.

Sincerely,

Emily Horton
Director of Policy & Community Engagement
Maine DACF