Northern Pulse Growers Brings Producer Priorities to Farm Bill Roundtable

NPGA advocates for stronger risk management, market access, transportation infrastructure, and producer profitability.

FARGO, N.D. — October 6, 2026

As Congress continues work on a new Farm Bill, the Northern Pulse Growers Association (NPGA) is ensuring the priorities of dry pea, lentil, and chickpea producers remain part of the national agricultural policy conversation.

NPGA Executive Director Shannon Berndt participated in an October 6 agricultural roundtable hosted by U.S. Senator John Hoeven at North Dakota State University in Fargo. The event brought together agricultural producers, commodity organizations, researchers, and industry leaders for discussions with Hoeven and U.S. Senator John Boozman of Arkansas, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

The roundtable provided an opportunity for agricultural leaders to share firsthand perspectives on the economic challenges facing producers and identify priorities as Congress considers additional Farm Bill provisions.

Bringing Pulse Growers' Priorities to Washington

Representing pulse producers across Montana and North Dakota, Berndt emphasized several issues critical to maintaining a competitive and profitable pulse industry.

“Our growers face many of the same economic pressures as other agricultural producers, but pulse crops also have unique challenges when it comes to crop insurance, transportation, and international markets,” said Berndt. “Having a seat at the table helps ensure those priorities are part of the Farm Bill conversation.”

Crop Insurance and Risk Management

Strengthening crop insurance and other risk management tools remains a priority for pulse producers. As production costs rise and market volatility continues, growers need programs that provide meaningful protection and accurately reflect the risks associated with growing dry peas, lentils, and chickpeas.

NPGA supports policies that improve the affordability, accessibility, and effectiveness of risk management programs while recognizing the unique production characteristics of pulse crops.

International Trade and Market Development

Access to reliable international markets remains essential to the long-term success of the U.S. pulse industry. With a significant share of pulse production dependent on export opportunities, trade policies and market access directly influence producer prices and profitability.

NPGA continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining competitive export opportunities, addressing trade barriers, and supporting international market development programs that build demand for U.S.-grown pulses.

Transportation and Supply Chain Reliability

Reliable and affordable transportation is essential for moving pulse crops from Northern Plains farms to domestic processors and international customers.

Rail service, access to shipping containers, ocean freight availability, and transportation costs all influence the ability of U.S. pulse producers to compete in global markets.

NPGA supports efforts to improve transportation reliability, reduce shipping disruptions, and ensure agricultural commodities can reach customers efficiently.

Rising Input Costs and Producer Profitability

Increasing costs for fertilizer, fuel, equipment, financing, and other farm inputs continue to place pressure on producer margins.

NPGA emphasized the importance of agricultural policies that recognize these financial challenges and help maintain the economic viability of family farms.

Together, these priorities reflect the need for a Farm Bill that provides long-term certainty while strengthening opportunities for pulse producers throughout Montana and North Dakota.

Congressional Leaders Highlight Farm Safety Net Improvements

During the roundtable, Senators Hoeven and Boozman discussed recent improvements to

federal farm safety net programs and their continued efforts to advance Farm Bill legislation.

Recent changes to Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), Price Loss Coverage (PLC), and crop insurance programs are expected to provide additional support to agricultural producers facing market uncertainty and elevated production expenses.

According to Senator Hoeven's office, North Dakota producers are expected to receive approximately $721 million in ARC and PLC payments for the 2025 crop year, reflecting recent enhancements to the programs.

Hoeven emphasized that strengthening the farm safety net remains essential as producers navigate economic challenges.

Senator Boozman also underscored the importance of producer involvement in shaping agricultural policy and advancing additional Farm Bill provisions.

The Senate's Farm Bill discussions include agricultural research, specialty crops, market development, farm lending, and additional risk management improvements.

Maintaining a Strong Voice for Pulse Producers

For NPGA, participation in discussions such as the Fargo roundtable is an important part of ensuring that federal agricultural policy reflects the needs of producers growing pulses in the Northern Plains.

Dry peas, lentils, and chickpeas contribute to diversified cropping systems, support soil health, and provide valuable domestic and international market opportunities. However, maintaining those benefits requires policies that support production, manage financial risk, and keep U.S. agriculture competitive.

As Farm Bill discussions continue, NPGA will remain engaged with congressional offices, national agricultural organizations, and industry partners to advocate for policies that strengthen producer profitability and the long-term viability of the pulse industry.

NPGA's message remains clear: effective agricultural policy must recognize the unique needs of pulse producers and provide the tools necessary for growers to remain competitive in an increasingly challenging agricultural economy.

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