Agriculture

Agriculture

Agriculture is a vital part of our state's economy and we must work together to secure a better future for Delaware's hard-working farmers.

The creation and application of new farm technologies is vital to the survival and growth of Delaware's farming economy. With recent advances in the field of biotechnology, we are able to increase the number of products that can be profitably derived from the crops that we grow.

Soybeans and corn are now being used in fuel additives and, one day, might help significantly reduce our dependence on foreign oil. The 2005 energy bill includes many provisions that promote the use of biofuels, which is beneficial for Delaware's soybean and corn producers.

We must also work to protect Delaware from the damaging effects of crop loss. By promoting agricultural research we can prevent disease and infestation while improving the quality of the crops that we produce.

We must also remain vigilant in our testing and prevention of avian influenza. In 2004, our state was hit by an outbreak of avian influenza that forced many farmers to destroy their flocks and kept Delaware poultry from entering foreign countries. Once the situation was under control, I worked with the delegation to lift trade barriers and to ensure that we had more resources at the federal level for testing, combating and preventing avian influenza.

To aid our farmers and our state's economy, we must also work to remove trade barriers that prevent Delaware products from being shipped throughout the world. By opening new markets, we develop the opportunity for trade and expand the global marketplace for Delaware products.

We also need to continue our policies of land conservation while taking steps to preserve the agricultural way of life. As the Senate continues to debate the important issues that impact Delaware's farming communities, please know that I will make every effort to protect this vital part of our state's economy.

http://carper.senate.gov/aag.htm