Members of Congress will be returning home to their districts in just a few weeks for the extended August recess. That means now is the ideal time for dairy processors across the country to begin planning to host their representatives and senators at their processing facilities for educational tours during the month of August.

As part of an amplified political programs effort this year, IDFA is challenging member companies to host at least one federal legislator or legislative staff member at each of their processing facilities during the month of August, termed ‘Take Your Legislator to Work Month.’ To help with these efforts, IDFA is pleased to offer a new, exclusive, members-only benefit: the 2015 IDFA Plant Tour Guide.

“We are excited to offer the Plant Tour Guide to better prepare IDFA members for hosting members of Congress at their facilities during Take Your Legislator to Work Month and beyond,” said Ashley Burch, director of political programs for IDFA. “The Plant Tour Guide is a simple, step-by-step checklist for scheduling and executing a successful plant tour and getting the most out of your lawmaker’s visit. We encourage all IDFA members to take advantage of this valuable new benefit.”

IDFA is always available to facilitate tours by putting members in touch with the appropriate staff for their legislators, securing tour dates and times, preparing a tour agenda and, if desired, providing talking points on key dairy issues. Burch assures members that they needn’t worry about whether they or their employees are fully prepared for an in-depth policy discussion.

“One common misconception is that a plant tour has to involve a hearty policy discussion, and this is simply not true,” said Burch. “Plant tours are really all about your business, the products you are making, where they are being sold and your contributions to your local and state economy. And who knows your business better than you?”

A typical plant tour lasts about an hour, covers the history and current function of the plant, allows opportunities for the legislators to meet plant employees and pose for photos and, when possible, sample product right off the line.

Through IDFA’s GrassRoots Action Network for Dairy (GRAND) program, members can find more information about Take Your Legislator to Work Month, how to set up plant tours or how to reach members of Congress. Visit the GRAND website at www.dairycounts.org or contact Burch at (202) 220-3534 or aburch@idfa.org.