Show Notes
What agricultural policy items should you be keeping an eye on in 2026? Our guests share insight on workforce, trade and the farm bill while stressing the importance of advocacy with the turnover in Congress. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests Heidi Fischer of Fischer-Clark Dairy and Michael Torrey of Torrey Advisory Group discuss the following topics:
Reflect on ag policy and what we can learn Workforce, labor shortage Exports Positives and negatives of tariffs Farm bill FDA, Dietary Guidelines for Americans Renewable Fuel Standards How to advocate
About the guest
Michael Torrey founded the Torrey Advisory Group in 2005. Mike’s commitment to the critical role of agriculture remains the foundation of the firm, and he has developed an experienced, bipartisan team who is dedicated to working for the greater good through food, agricultural, and related industries. The team’s ranks include experts in science, nutrition, legislative policy, and trade.
Heidi Fischer is a dairy farmer and owner of Fischer-Clark Dairy in Hatley, Wisconsin, where they milk 1,100 cows and farm 2,800 acres. Heidi is currently serving as the president of Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative.
Resources:
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative policy priorities Edge member portal Contact Edge Chief Policy Officer Karen Gefvert at [email protected]
Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing [email protected].
More from Dairy Stream
Learn more about Bank First. Legacy Nutrient Value refers to the value associated with crop-producing nutrients presented in the soil at the time agricultural land is purchased or inherited. These nutrients, including phosphorus, potassium, and other macro- and micronutrients, contribute to the land’s productivity and overall value. Dairy Stream host Joanna Guza and guest, Dave Stamp, discuss the following topics:
The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Oct. 21. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Dave Stamp, Midwest Region Referral Partner Manager at Boa Safra Ag, cover Legacy Nutrient Value, the process, challenges and the easiest way to get started. Boa Safra Ag provides soil analysis, fertility valuation and documentation—not tax advice. Tax benefits depend on eligibility and individual circumstances. Consult your CPA or tax professional. This is sponsored by the Boa Safra Ag. Step away from the day-to-day and focus on what’s ahead at Dairy Strong, January 13 and 14 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Gain perspective on the markets, policies and innovations shaping dairy. Compare ideas with other farmers, bring your team into the conversation and return home better prepared to make strong decisions for your business. Register today for DairyStrong.org. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing [email protected].
Learn more about BankFirst. Real estate is a valuable asset — is your farm up-to-speed on real estate conveyances? Dairy Stream host Joanna Guza and guest, Attorney Will McKinley, discuss the following topics:
Learn more about BankFirst. The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Oct. 7. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Will McKinley, President and CEO of Menn Law Firm, cover common legal and tax real estate terms, adverse possession, contracts and advice. This is sponsored by the Menn Law Firm. Step away from the day-to-day and focus on what’s ahead at Dairy Strong, January 13 and 14 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Gain perspective on the markets, policies and innovations shaping dairy. Compare ideas with other farmers, bring your team into the conversation and return home better prepared to make strong decisions for your business. Register today for DairyStrong.org. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing [email protected].
Learn more about Prairie Estates Genetics. This first-of-its-kind program provides farmers with the tools and resources needed to streamline the permitting process. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Tim Baumgartner and Rick Roden, discuss the following topics: