The American Goat Federation is the national trade association for US goat producers and the entire goat industry. Using input from member organizations, AGF jointly develops policy on the industry’s issues which are then voted on by an industry-wide board. The policies with broad support among producers allow leaders and lobbyists to speak to federal policy makers with one unified voice for the goat industry. AGF policy development enables the goat industry to be at the table with federal agencies when rules and regulations are developed. Similarly, when programs are established to support livestock production, marketing and education, AGF relays the unique needs of goat producers through the policies that have been developed. A unified, national voice for the goat industry is invaluable when interacting with the agencies within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – from market collection and national statistics information to ensuring that goats are eligible to participate in new programs and animal protection initiatives. Membership in AGF gives goat producers a voice in the development of public policy and direct input to federal USDA agencies and the U.S. Congress.