Iowa is a leading producer in world agriculture, both in crops and livestock. Their position is one of more importance as tragedies threaten production globally. At home and abroad there is tremendous pressure on American farmers to increase their ability to feed the growing population. Common sense would tell consumers that advances in technology and techniques would enable farmers to do so. However, many consumers are unaware of something that is disrupting livestock production and threatening to unbalance the agricultural economy of Iowa and eventually other states.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend in groups from outside the agricultural community to use "undercover" video to allege animal abuse. Videos are used as shock tactics to disrupt production, upset the public and raise money. These campaigns are led by voices from outside Iowa with a goal of ending animal agriculture. They are trying to influence the public and persuade legislators to believe that farmers don’t care about their livestock. Making claims that the only protection for animals is the questionably obtained videos resulting from entry gained by trespass or lies.
Last summer more than 500 Iowa voters were surveyed regarding their views on livestock production in the state. Over 80 percent said they believe that farmers treat their animals humanely. Of those surveyed, 83 percent believe there is and should be a difference in what is termed humane treatment of farm animals and that of pets. Obviously, the majority understands the importance of livestock production. Unfortunately, that may turn out to be the silent majority if more consumers don't know about HF 589.
Iowa's HF 589 is a bill that would penalize people who trespass or lie to gain entry into livestock facilities. It appears to be a drastic step, but it has become a necessary step to protect the agriculture economy. Iowa's continued leadership in agriculture is dependant on a strong agricultural economy and that economy needs grain, livestock and biofuel producers working together. People impacted by HF 589 are those wanting to advance their political objectives and skew the fragile economy. Economic disruption in agriculture will trickle down to affect consumers.
Iowa farmers are already regulated and inspected stringently by government entities, so the undercover tactics affected by HF 589 are not needed for regulation purposes. Iowa farmers can't combat a multimillion dollar public relations campaign released by those wanting to end livestock production. What Iowa farmers have is factual information and hope that legislators will contact farm representatives and listen to the public that understands farmers do care about their animals. This is needed for House File 589 and will continue to be needed for any agriculture bills in the future.
