National Association of Conservation District officials are hoping conferees complete the 2018 farm bill yet this year. NACD Director of Government Affairs Coleman Garrison says just the mention of no extension by leadership should compel conferees to get the legislation finalized.

He says while there are several differences in conservation provisions in the House and Senate versions of the farm bill, their goal is to make sure a solid conservation program is upheld with adequate funding.

Garrison expects conferees to come up with a final bill, although a short-term extension may be needed.

Garrison says once the farm bill expires, Congress will be pressured to complete a final measure before it gets punted to next year’s Congress.