June 22, 2022
Greetings Fellow ARA Members!
I know that most everyone is in the heat (literally in parts of the country and figuratively everywhere) of the battle, so I’ll keep this update short.
First off, the ARA policy team continues to stay on top of an ever shifting regulatory and legislative environment and to keep the best interests of our members at the forefront. Specifically, ARA was very involved with the recently passed Ocean Shipping Reform Act. This was a rare act of bipartisanship in an ever more partisan environment. The policy team continues work towards the passage of the Water Resources Development Act which would fund key infrastructure projects and maintenance by the Army Corps of Engineers, focusing particularly on the inland waterways that our industry and customers depend upon. ARA continues to engage on tariffs as well as the recent developments surrounding glyphosate litigation. As the next Farm Bill reauthorization approaches, ARA will work to protect and improve this important safety net for farmers.
In other association news, the ARA Board will soon embark on our quinquennial (yes, I had to Google that) strategic planning process. We undertake this process every five years to ensure that we are providing the proper direction, feedback, and guidance to the ARA staff. But, most of all, to keep the association evolving in a rapidly changing industry. I encourage you to reach out to a board member or to me directly if you have any feedback you’d like to see included in this important process.
Time is short, but I encourage you to think about applying for the ARA Retailer of the Year Award. This honor has been awarded to a host of top-quality retailers over its nearly 20 years in existence. The Association takes nominations by any member and the deadline is fast approaching on July 1. More information can be found at here.
Lastly, I’d like to remind you of a few important upcoming programs. First, the ENGAGE for Ag Leaders program is back to an in-person format and is well worth your time. I attended several years ago and still utilize lessons learned from this event. This program would be a huge value for anyone on your leadership team as well as from your communications team. More information and registration can be found here.
And lastly, if you are needing a mental break from a high heat index, you can turn your thoughts towards late November and the annual ARA Conference and Expo where we will celebrate 30 years of ARA. The staff and Conference Planning Committee have set up a top-quality venue and a great slate of engaging speakers in line with this year’s theme, “Navigating the Channels of Ag Retail.” Registration is open with early bird rates at www.aradc.org/conference.
Thanks again for your continued support and membership in the ARA. As always, please feel free to reach out to me directly with questions.
All the best,
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