Cochran Registers Support For AG Research Programs In 2018 Farm Bill

Press Release

U.S. Senator Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), today issued a statement in support of collaborative agricultural research supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as the Senate Agriculture Committee weighs provisions for a new farm bill.

The committee on Thursday conducted a hearing titled, "Agricultural Research: Perspectives on Past and Future Successes for the 2018 Farm Bill." The hearing is one in a series of hearings being conducted to prepare for a new farm bill.

"Agricultural research has a significant impact on our nation's economy and the world. American farmers and ranchers play the leading role in feeding and clothing the world. The United States would be hard pressed to fulfill this mission without significant investment in agricultural research," said Cochran, a former chairman of the committee.

The Cochran statement bolsters ongoing committee support for USDA scientific research agencies that advance knowledge through research, extension, and education: the Agricultural Research Service; the National Institute of Food and Agriculture; the Economic Research Service; and the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Cochran also endorsed the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, which was established in the 2014 farm bill. The foundation leverages public and private resources to support USDA agricultural research. Dr. Mark Keenum, president of Mississippi State University, was recently named chairman of the board for the foundation.

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