In early March, I joined colleagues from across the country for an “Audubon Fly-In” to Washington, D.C., where we engaged with federal lawmakers and their staff to discuss key environmental priorities. I had the privilege to meet with representatives and staff from North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska to advocate for a range of federal conservation programs—especially the importance of a strong Farm Bill.

Highlights of the trip included a productive conversation with Julie Fedorchak of North Dakota, where we offered our expertise and support for efforts to improve America’s transmission grid. We also met with Senator Deb Fischer to discuss the vital role of private landowners in conserving Nebraska’s Sandhills region, again underscoring the need for robust Farm Bill provisions.

In a discussion with Congressman Don Bacon, we shared our enthusiasm for the growing importance of urban habitat conservation.

These conversations were a meaningful step toward ensuring that conservation remains a bipartisan priority—supporting both rural and urban communities, as well as the natural landscapes that sustain birds across the Great Plains.