Moran Disappointed in Court Order to Halt Critical Feed Use on Conservation Reserve Program Acres

Press Release

Works with USDA Officials to Quickly Resolve Issue

Congressman Jerry Moran today expressed his disappointment in a court decision to place a hold on Critical Feed Use of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). A federal judge issued a 10 day temporary restraining order effective on July 8. The court order was a result of legal action by the National Wildlife Federation. According to the temporary restraining order, all Critical Feed Use activity was to immediately stop once the order was issued.

"It is unfortunate that this action has taken place especially in this late hour after producers have made stocking decisions," Moran said. "I am working with USDA officials to determine ways to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. I am also considering legislative action. This is an example of an environmental group obstructing legitimate agriculture policy decisions."

Critical Feed Use was authorized by USDA on May 27 for certain CRP acreage to be available for hay and forage after the primary nesting season ended for grass-nesting birds. More than 24 million acres of land were made eligible for Critical Feed Use to provide feed and forage to help alleviate the escalating price of feed for livestock producers.

Moran is a senior member of the House Committee on Agriculture.

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