Nebraskans Offer Farm Bill Input at Senate AG Hearing Hosted by Nelson and Chairman Chambliss
NEBRASKANS OFFER FARM BILL INPUT AT SENATE AG HEARING HOSTED BY NELSON AND CHAIRMAN CHAMBLISS
Twelve Nebraskans, all producers from different sectors of agriculture, today participated in the development of the nation's agriculture policies at a Senate hearing on the next farm bill held in Grand Island, Nebraska.
Nebraska's Senator Ben Nelson and Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Saxby Chambliss convened a field hearing of the Senate Agriculture Committee to receive input and recommendations from Nebraska producers as the Committee begins deliberations on the next farm bill. Nelson requested the hearing be held in Nebraska. Senator Chuck Hagel attended the hearing briefly.
"For centuries, our farmers and ranchers have fed the people and the prosperity of our nation," said Nelson. "That's no easy task and we all must work together on developing a new farm bill that helps our farmer and ranchers and secures America's food and fuel supply."
At today's hearing, Nelson outlined his vision for the new farm bill, which he calls the Food and Fuel Security Act. His priorities include:
Securing America's food supply by supporting our farmers in a time when commodity prices are historically low and input costs are historically high;
Protecting the environment and our natural resources by rewarding farmers and ranchers for good conservation practices;
Creating a drought mitigation system to help farmers and ranchers prepare for the devastating impact of drought;
Building business and trade opportunities that help family farms make a good living off their lands and stay in business;
Continuing development of renewable fuels like ethanol to grow America's energy independence and security;
Encouraging a new generation to enter farming by investing in entrepreneurship programs and rural development initiatives.
During the hearing, panelists answered Nelson's questions about issues ranging from DOHA to drought. The Nebraska producers felt that the government needs to provide a safety net from agricultural pitfalls such as drought. They were also in favor of innovative production techniques and an enhanced drought mitigation system.
"I appreciate all the input today from the people affected so directly by the outcome of this important legislation," said Nelson. "The information and suggestions gathered today from Nebraskans will help as we re-assess our farm policy to secure rural America and America's food and fuel supply."
Senator Nelson is a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Nebraskans wishing to share their viewpoints and submit testimony to the committee or find out more about the new farm bill can visit a special page on Nelson's Senate website, http://www.bennelson.senate.gov/aghearing/index.cfm. This webpage also contains information about the hearing's panelists and Senator Nelson's prepared opening statement.
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