Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D)  at a Pro Abortion Rally at Monument Square in Portland Earlier This Year.

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D) was one of three members of Congress who led a group of 25 members of Congress in a push to get emergency relief for US organic dairy and poultry farmers amid skyrocketing feed costs that are impacting the future viability of the industry.

In their letter to US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack, Pingree and her colleagues note that “the solution is dire” and requires the Deparment’s immediate attention.

“Without rapid action, families are on track to lose their farms,” the Members wrote.  “While the agriculture sector overall is struggling with a multitude of challenges that have impacted the markekt, organic is a unique supply chain and market that requires tailored solutions to meet the needs of producers.  International trade challenges specific to organic, persistent drought and the lack of a stable domestic supply of certified organic feed have created a dire economic situation for organic livestock farmers across the US over the last two years.”