More than 100 farmers and commodity groups gathered to have a part in helping to shape the 2012 Farm Bill.
North Dakota Congressman Earl Pomeroy and House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson heard testimony from area producers and commodity groups last week in an effort to gather input before the 2012 farm bill legislation is drafted.
The event — which is one in a series of forums used to gain public insight — was held in a shop building at Bill Hejl’s farm near Amenia, ND, and attracted more than 100 local farmers and representatives from state growers associations.
In his opening remarks, Congressman Pomeroy noted that USDA was going to have to do more with less funding. Of the commodity groups that provided testimony, most were generally pleased with existing farm programs but offered recommendations for improvement. A common concern among participants was timely program delivery and the desire to simplify programs.
North Dakota FSA State Executive Director Aaron Krauter shared details of how FSA has delivered farm programs outlined in the current farm bill to North Dakota producers.
Krauter noted that while the number of farm programs administered by USDA has increased, FSA’s staffing has steadily decreased. By improving communication between USDA agencies, Krauter said FSA could improve service to its customers.
FSA staff from the State Office and Cass County office was on hand to answer specific questions about program delivery and participation before and after the event.
—by Dan Janes, North Dakota FSA State Office
