Reynolds Calls on DOA Reconsider Closing NRCS in Lockport

Press Release

Reynolds Calls on DOA Reconsider Closing NRCS in Lockport

Representative Thomas M. Reynolds (Clarence) yesterday sent a letter to the Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Chuck Conner on the Department's plans to close the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office in Lockport.

"I am deeply concerned that this decision to close the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Lockport will significantly hinder farmers in Western New York from getting the advice and help they need and most certainly deserve," said Reynolds. "I represent one of the most productive agricultural districts in the United States.

Our area farmers already face extremely difficult tasks in dealing with environmental concerns, water quality, wildlife habitat, wetland reservation, and sprawl. They need all the assistance they can get from the federal government."

The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides farmers with assistance on how to manage and conserve their soil, water, and other natural resources. The NRCS ensures farmers understand the importance of conservation and are given all the means necessary to practice conservation.

In Congress, Reynolds has led a tireless effort to secure additional conservation funding for New York through the farm bill. Conservation funding is key to New York State's equity in farm policy.

"This regrettable decision to close our NRCS office will only hinder Western New York farmer's ability to be a viable and vibrant part of our local economy," concluded Reynolds. "The Department of Agriculture must reconsider this terrible decision, and provide the help Western New York farmer's need."

Source