The House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee convened on March 14, 2025, at 10:30 AM to discuss critical issues surrounding agricultural sustainability and food insecurity in Washington State. The meeting featured presentations from experts in the field, including Pam Lewis, the ag research director for the Washington Policy Center, who emphasized the importance of sustainability in agriculture.

Lewis opened her presentation by highlighting the advancements in agricultural efficiency, noting that modern farms now feed approximately 170 people per acre, a significant increase from 26 people per acre in 1960. She attributed this progress to improved methodologies and technologies, which have led to decreased water and pesticide usage while increasing production. Lewis stressed that sustainability varies across different types of farms, depending on their specific operational needs and economic conditions.

During the discussion, Representative Morgan raised concerns about the demographics of farm ownership in Washington. Lewis acknowledged that while she did not have specific statistics on hand, the racial makeup of farm owners in the state mirrors national trends, with a predominance of Caucasian owners, followed by Black and Latino farmers. She noted that the high costs associated with entering farming pose barriers for first-generation farmers, regardless of their background.

The committee also addressed the pressing issue of food insecurity in Washington. Lewis pointed out that while the state is a major food exporter, it faces significant challenges in ensuring food access for its residents. In 2024, over 23 million pounds of food were distributed through food pantries, with Eastern Washington experiencing the highest rates of food insecurity. Lewis highlighted that Ferry County has the highest percentage of food insecurity in the state, affecting nearly 19% of its population.

In response to questions about potential solutions, Lewis suggested that educational initiatives, such as reintroducing home economics programs in schools, could empower youth to prepare nutritious meals affordably. She emphasized the importance of addressing the stigma around canned and frozen foods, which can be cost-effective and nutritious alternatives.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among committee members to explore policies that could enhance food security and support local food production for community needs. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges in agriculture and the need for innovative solutions to ensure sustainability and food access in Washington State.