IA hosts post-election webinars

The Irrigation Association hosted the first two of its three-part Post-Election Webinar Series, with the third installment scheduled for April 29.

The first webinar, held on Dec. 10, discussed the implications of recent political shifts on the irrigation industry. The session provided an overview of key legislative and regulatory changes, as well as opportunities for businesses to engage in advocacy efforts.

Led by industry advocates, the webinar explored the evolving congressional landscape, the administration’s policy priorities and other developments that could shape the future of water management, labor and trade within the irrigation sector.

The second webinar, held Jan. 22, focused on state-level legislative developments impacting the irrigation industry. The 30-minute session explored emerging state policies and trends in water management, labor and trade, as well as state government priorities that intersect with the irrigation industry. The webinar provided insights into opportunities for advocacy at the local level.

The April 29 webinar will analyze the impacts on the irrigation industry following the first 100 days of the news administration and discuss what lies ahead. Registration is free for this in-depth webinar as we explore key developments, challenges and opportunities for the future.

“The changes we’re seeing in Washington will have real-world effects on irrigation businesses,” says Nathan Bowen, vice president of policy and industry advancement for the Irrigation Association. “This webinar series is an opportunity to understand what’s ahead and how to take action to ensure our industry’s needs are addressed.”

Recordings of the Dec. 10 and Jan. 22 webinars are available for on-demand viewing, and registration is open for the April 29 webinar. All video and registration links are available on IA’s Irrigation Advocacy Insights webpage.

Click here to register for the next installment of the Post-Election Webinar Series.

Advocacy Summit draws industry leaders to Washington, D.C.

The Irrigation Association hosted an Advocacy Summit March 25–27 in Washington, D.C. The event provided the opportunity for industry leaders to join IA staff to head to Capitol Hill to meet with key decision-makers to advance priorities, including passing a farm bill with robust conservation support, increasing access to funding that supports efficient agriculture, and reducing the burdens of excessive federal and state regulations that impede business growth, ensuring that irrigation companies can focus on innovation and efficiency rather than compliance hurdles.

This year’s summit expanded on previous fly-ins and was designed to equip IA members to effectively advocate for critical policy priorities both during the event and beyond. The 2025 Advocacy Summit combined Capitol Hill meetings with discussions and networking opportunities to educate and empower irrigation industry leaders, aspiring advocates and stakeholders.

“This year’s Advocacy Summit showcased leaders from across the irrigation industry championing the important contributions the industry makes to global food security and the economy,” says Nathan Bowen, IA vice president of policy and industry advancement. “Engaging directly with policymakers allowed us to emphasize the critical role irrigation plays in agriculture, sustainable water management and the resilience of our communities.”

Rankin highlights collaboration at CII

Irrigation Association CEO Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE, was honored to present at the California Irrigation Institute Conference in Sacramento, Jan. 27–28. Her presentation focused on irrigation partnerships and the importance of working together.

Rankin highlighted how strategic partnerships drive innovation, advance water efficiency and empower communities with the tools and information needed to make informed decisions.

2025 Irrigation Show heads to New Orleans

Make plans to attend the 2025 Irrigation Show and Education Week, scheduled for Dec. 8–11 in New Orleans. Watch irrigationshow.org for more information to come about how you can join us to explore, connect and learn as we blend inspiration and innovation with fun in the Big Easy.

IA applauds Richard Fordyce’s appointment

The Irrigation Association has expressed its support for the nomination of Richard Fordyce as USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

Fordyce, a Missouri farmer and former Farm Service Agency Administrator, brings extensive experience to the role, with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing American agriculture.

“On behalf of the irrigation industry, I am pleased to congratulate Richard Fordyce on his nomination,” says Irrigation Association CEO Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE. “We look forward to working with him to help American farmers increase productivity while showcasing the positive impacts of irrigation. Together, we can advance the stewardship of our nation’s water and natural resources, ensuring the vitality of agriculture and continuing to demonstrate the benefits of adopting sustainable irrigation practices.”

Fordyce’s background as both a farmer and leader at the federal and state levels increases his potential to champion policies that promote innovation, strengthen the agricultural workforce and advance water-saving technologies.

For the most recent updates on legislative issues affecting the irrigation industry and how you can get involved, visit the IA’s Irrigation Advocacy Insights webpage.