By Pam Musland

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Mark Watne of Velva was reelected to a seventh year as North Dakota Farmers Union president by more than 600 members attending the organization’s 93rd annual state convention this past weekend, Dec. 13-14, in Bismarck.

“I’m deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve the forward-thinking members of North Dakota Farmers Union,” said Watne. “Even in these times of economic challenge, we find ways to work for solutions.” Bob Kuylen of South Heart was reelected vice president.

A mix of educational speakers, youth achievement recognition, policy debate and entertainment highlighted the convention, as well as Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Company’s annual meeting. Of special importance were two special orders of business adopted by NDFU members.

The first called on Congress and the Administration to ensure future ad hoc payments, such as Market Facilitation Program payments, account for direct and indirect impacts of trade wars on all commodities, and account for basis costs as well. The second order calls on Congress to enact legislation to strengthen antitrust laws, reverse the trend of agribusiness consolidation, and protect family farmers and ranchers from abuses of market power.

Photos from the event are available at ndfu.org.