With Congress at home for an extended recess through Labor Day, August offers an ideal time for dairy processors across the country to use this legislative downtime to host their senators and representatives at their processing facilities for educational tours.

Legislators value the opportunity to tour businesses that are making a positive contribution to their states and districts, particularly as the 2016 election looms near. For IDFA members, plant tours offer an excellent way to connect on a personal level with lawmakers, allowing them to see firsthand what dairy businesses need to be successful.

“With yet another Farm Bill on the horizon, the timing is opportune for IDFA members to connect or reconnect with their legislators,” said Ashley Burch, IDFA director of political programs. “Maintaining and growing these relationships is critical for IDFA’s legislative success.”

IDFA can facilitate tours by putting members in touch with the appropriate staff for their legislators, secure tour dates and time, prepare tour agendas and, if desired, provide talking points on key dairy issues. A typical plant tour lasts about an hour, covers the history and current function of the plant, allows opportunities for the legislators to meet and greet plant employees and pose for photos and, when possible, sample product right off the line.

IDFA has prepared a Plant Tour Guide to get members started. Companies interested in arranging a plant tour for members of Congress may contact Burch at (202) 220-3534 or aburch@idfa.org.