The Hill News

As the 2012 Farm Bill debates heat up, it is imperative that we begin to look beyond the traditional five-year timeframe that this legislation establishes. Instead, we must consider, on an ongoing basis, what it will take to shape the sustainable, resilient food and agriculture system that we all want and need for the future. Maintaining healthy, productive and profitable U.S. farming and ranching operations is an important element of our future food and agriculture system. Public policy and government support must go well beyond risk management tools and income guarantees for today’s farmers and ranchers.
 
And others must be engaged in the search for solutions. Civil society and private sector engagement and participation are vital for a successful, holistic and sustainable food and agriculture system. Through collaboration, investment and innovation among all stakeholders, we can develop and meet a new vision for agriculture, one that addresses our future! needs, concerns and challenges.
 

Read more...