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(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman announced his findings from a series of statewide meetings held with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) to gather input on the future of the nation’s farm program.
The input gathered during the Governor’s listening sessions was shared today with Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns, leaders of U.S. Senate and House Agriculture Committees, as well as members of Nebraska’s congressional delegation.
“I felt it was important for Nebraskans to be heard early in the process of drafting the next farm bill, and I was pleased by the thoughtful comments and suggestions we received,” Gov. Heineman said. “Many farmers and ranchers offered good suggestions which are included in the summary being sent to Secretary Johanns and congressional leaders today. It is my hope that as a leading ag state, the input from our producers and several respected agricultural organizations will be useful as work begins on the next farm bill.”
The report also included a letter to Secretary Johanns highlighting the need for the next farm bill to pursue policies that will form the foundation for new growth areas in agriculture.
The Governor received comments regarding nearly every aspect of the federal farm program during five statewide farm bill listening sessions. The majority of comments fell into five categories: commodity price supports; foreign market access and trade; conservation programs; rural development and value-added projects; and issues concerning beginning farmers and ranchers.
NDA Director Greg Ibach said, “We will use the information we’ve gathered to encourage a sound national policy for agriculture and to meet the needs of Nebraska’s producers and rural communities.”
In addition to his role in advocating for Nebraska producers as work on the next farm bill begins, the Governor is serving as the lead Governor on farm bill reauthorization for the Western Governors’ Association.
Summary of Contents (PDF 117k)
Letter (PDF 84k)
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