Legislation Would Encourage More Veterinarians to Practice in Rural Areas

A newly introduced bill backed by the American Farm Bureau Federation would help bring more veterinarians to rural areas.

 

“Timely veterinary care is key to maintaining the health of our nation’s poultry flocks and dairy and livestock herds. However, a shortage of animal care professionals in many rural areas is putting farm animals at risk, jeopardizing the farms and ranches that care for them, and impacting the stability of our food supply,” AFBF President Zippy Duvall said in a letter to the sponsors of the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act (H.R. 2447), Reps. Ron Kind (D-Wis,), Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), Kurt Schrader (D-Ore.) and Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.).

Video: Three Generations of Care for the Land, the Cattle and the Future of Farming

At Van Osch Farms, the family raises Ontario corn-fed beef while working with the land to keep their operation strong for the next generation. From upcycling corn distillers in their feed program to powering their farm with rooftop solar (producing enough electricity for 80 homes), their approach is rooted in continuous improvement.

Their commitment to responsible farming practices earned them The Environmental Stewardship Award, recognizing producers who go above and beyond in caring for their land and animals.

It's another example of how Ontario farmers are helping build a sustainable future for Ontario beef.