Farmers and advocates in the Washington-Baltimore-Arlington region are raising concerns over proposed legislation that could impact animal welfare and environmental health. The Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026 (H.R. 7567) and the Save Our Bacon Act (H.R. 4673) could roll back state laws on animal treatment, prioritizing large-scale agricultural interests.

Local Voices Call for Change

Sharon Kay, co-owner of Fawn Crossing Farms in Virginia, emphasizes the importance of smaller farms in feeding the nation. She advocates for processes that encourage larger farms to adopt healthier food production methods. Similarly, Dr. Sacoby Wilson from the University of Maryland highlights the need for sustainable and regenerative farming practices to address the negative impacts of large-scale operations.

Maria Payan, an advocate from the Sussex Health and Environmental Network, shares personal experiences of living near a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) and the associated health risks. Her advocacy work focuses on the relationship between environmental and public health, urging for better policies.

Sustainable Practices in Action

Farms like Fawn Crossing and Roseda Black Angus in Maryland exemplify sustainable practices. Dean Bryant of Roseda Farm explains their rotational grazing system, which reduces emissions and supports animal welfare. The farm also uses solar energy and a gravity-based watering system to protect local waterways.

These efforts highlight the potential for smaller farms to lead in sustainable agriculture, advocating for policies that support environmental health and animal welfare.

Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.