October 3, 2005

One of the most rewarding parts of serving as Governor is the opportunity to hear from Nebraskans about what matters to them. I made a commitment early on to seek the input of our citizens and that determination continues as we begin to consider the future of agriculture and ag policy in this state.

Discussions on the 2007 Farm Bill are already underway. Given Nebraska’s substantial role in crop, livestock and ethanol production, innovative conservation programs and stake in international trade, it is important to me to reach out and hear from our farmers, ranchers and those interested in rural economic development as part of a series of listening sessions on the Farm Bill.

There is a strong link between a successful agriculture industry and strong economic vitality. Agriculture is big business in Nebraska, accounting for more than $10 billion in cash receipts in 2003, but for many a career in farming and ranching is also a family tradition. It is part of our heritage that has grown into the largest industry in our state, and I feel confident in saying that it will be part of our successful future as well.

As one of the nation’s top producing ag states, Nebraska has an opportunity to provide input that will help shape the 2007 Farm Bill. This legislation will help determine commodity price supports, priorities with regard to conservation programs, as well as rural development, renewable energy and beginning farmer initiatives for several years to come.

More than a dozen Nebraska agricultural and rural organizations were invited to provide testimony during the first of several listening sessions on the Farm Bill. Representatives with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture were there as well, and we have planned additional sessions to provide producers the opportunity to participate following the harvest.

There are several opportunities to take part in one of the upcoming listening sessions, with the next coming up on Tuesday, Oct. 25 at the Civic Center in Gering. The remaining sessions are scheduled for Monday, Nov. 14 on the University of Nebraska-Kearney campus, with another session to be held later that afternoon at the Sandhills Convention Center in North Platte. The tour will conclude on Thursday, Nov. 17 in Norfolk with the final listening session scheduled to be held at the Northeast Community College Activities Building.

I intend to share the input we receive with Nebraska’s congressional delegation, Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns and leaders of both the U.S. House and Senate agricultural committees. I’ll also be working with my fellow Governors and leading efforts to lobby Congress on behalf of the Western Governors Association regarding the 2007 Farm Bill.

These sessions represent a great opportunity to share ideas on overcoming some of the most challenging issues facing producers today. From coping with higher fuel costs to tight export markets and tariffs, these listening sessions are an important chance to ensure the views of Nebraskans are part of the discussion on the next farm bill.

I’d also invite anyone unable to attend one of the upcoming listening sessions to write or e-mail me to share their thoughts. I continue to read the messages sent to my office and will make sure any additional input and suggestions are heard.

U.S. agricultural policy has far-reaching implications for our producers and our state economy. These listening sessions will help begin a statewide dialogue on the Farm Bill by providing an important opportunity for farmers, ranchers and those working to advance rural development to weigh-in on the issues that directly affect them. I look forward to hearing from all those with a stake in the future of this dynamic industry.