As agriculture continues to navigate evolving environmental regulations and water quality concerns, the Agricultural Nutrient Policy Council (ANPC) plays an important role in ensuring farmers and agribusinesses have a voice in policy discussions, scientific research, and regulatory decisions.
Founded in 2010, ANPC brings together more than 50 state and federal agricultural organizations and agribusinesses to address nutrient management and water quality issues impacting agriculture. The organization was established to help agriculture engage in policies and programs related to the Clean Water Act and conservation provisions of the Farm Bill.
According to Lauren Lurkins, ANPC Senior Policy Advisor, the organization serves as an important connection between agriculture and federal agencies, particularly as administrations and regulatory priorities change.
ANPC monitors legal developments involving nutrient management across the country and works with researchers from government agencies and universities to better understand emerging science related to nutrients and water quality. The organization also provides members with opportunities to share information, exchange perspectives and develop strategies to address challenges facing agriculture.
Lurkins brings extensive experience in environmental law and agricultural policy to her role. She spent eight years as an environmental defense attorney in private practice before working for a state Farm Bureau for 10 years, focusing on environmental policy and regulatory advocacy on behalf of farmers.
During her time with Farm Bureau, Lurkins represented the organization as an ANPC member and recognized the value of having access to policy information and a network of agricultural professionals working on similar issues.
"I loved that I heard different perspectives on nutrient issues across agriculture, from row crops, livestock, ag retail, to better inform my own perspective," Lurkins said.
Four years ago, she transitioned from her Farm Bureau role to serve as ANPC's Senior Policy Advisor, where she continues to strengthen the organization's network and help members navigate changing nutrient policy issues.
One way ANPC supports its members is through educational events, networking opportunities, and strategic discussions. Every other year, the organization hosts an in-person member event focused on emerging issues and opportunities to strengthen agriculture's position in policy discussions.
This year, ANPC brought more than 60 members together in Des Moines, Iowa, for two days of programming, networking, and strategy discussions. The location was particularly relevant given recent political campaigns in Iowa that have raised concerns about agriculture's role in nitrate-related water pollution.
In addition to member events, ANPC hosts scientific research workshops that bring agricultural representatives together with researchers from universities and government agencies to examine specific nutrient and water quality challenges.
As nutrient management and water quality remain important issues for farmers, ANPC continues to provide a coordinated voice for agriculture, connecting policy, science, and practical solutions that support farmers while addressing environmental concerns.
Agricultural organizations and agribusinesses interested in learning more about ANPC membership can contact Lauren Lurkins at lauren@lurkinsstrategies.com.
For more information about ANPC and its recent activities, visit www.agnutrientpolicy.org.
Lauren Lurkins, Agricultural Nutrient Policy Council Senior Policy Advisor