Achieving Your Objectives in Washington, D.C.: The Challenge for WSSA

Abstract

Given that the Weed Science Society of America's (WSSA's) long-term objectives may include increasing the level of public funding in weed science, WSSA needs to make its case successfully in the policy arena. A strategy to influence policy in Washington should include: identifying specific goals to be achieved in a reasonable time frame; building the case for increased funding, including supporting arguments and materials; identifying the key players that can affect the policy discussion; and knowing what positions those key players currently hold. The 1995 Farm Bill may be a potential window of opportunity to affect changes in agricultural policy with regard to weed science. The next two years are an appropriate time to implement whatever strategy is developed.