Tom Kammerzell
Candidate for Wheat District 2 (Whitman)
Hometown: Colfax, WA
Education: Spokane Community College, Successful Life Experiences
Years of farming: 5th generation wheat production. Active since 1980
Affiliations: Pacific NW Waterways Assoc. / Port of Whitman Co./ WA RCO Advisory Board for Farmland Preservation/ Whitman Conservation District Supervisor/ Whitman Co. Cattlemen’s Assoc.
Candidate Statement
The current economic pressures on the grain industry cannot continue if we are to survive. High costs and prices below break even will be the death of grain production. Current customer relationships must be solidified and more markets recruited – in an aggressive manner. Research and development in both wheat and barley must also aggressivity be advanced so our industry has all the options. We have the most efficient cost effective transportation system in the world in the Columbia/Snake River system, and it must be preserved for us to be competitive. It comes down to relationships, retaining customers and recruiting new markets.
Why do you want to serve on the board of the Washington Grain Commission?
Agriculture and grain production is in my DNA – Fifth Generation. I have never been one to criticize without offering to be part of the solution. Grain is the history and culture of Eastern Washington. I believe my experiences and perspective along with my passion for agriculture, and my foundational belief that my constituents (Whitman County grain producers) need interactive representation. I will provide that. Assessment payers opinions count and need to be heard.
What experience and strengths would you bring to the Washington Grain Commission?
I have thirty-five years of leadership, advocacy, and service in many organizations. The ability to analyze before taking action, collaborate when necessary, and work outside the box to come up with innovative solutions. I have been fortunate to be in positions to advocate for Whitman County issues of importance so our collective voices are heard.
What challenges being faced by the small grains industry would you focus your attention on?
In an ever changing global market, Washington Grain Commission needs to be aggressively building more markets for the superior grains that we produce. Maintaining current buyers is not enough. Doing all we can to maintain the Columbian/Snake River transportation system is going to be critical to maintaining market share. Without an affordable, reliable transportation system our competitive edge will be lost.
What else would you like the growers and landlords of your district to know about you as a candidate?
Transparency and communication is a must for constituents to have trust in the Grain Commission. I always remember who I represent and that is the assessment payers of Whitman County. Feel free to call me anytime. I value the insights and conversations – 509-595-0632.
Additional candidate information
I am willing to actively participate on the Grain Commission Board on behalf Grain Producers of Whitman County.