Political Quotes

“unless Congress acts soon, millions of acres of grassland and tree cover protecting our soil, streams, and wildlife will be plowed and converted to cropland and an important investment in our environment will be lost. For 8 years, our Nation's natural resources have been protected by the Conservation Reserve Program. This Federal program provides the necessary incentive for farmers to convert land unfit for crops into grasslands and tree cover. Grasslands and trees, in turn, prevent topsoil erosion, improve water quality, and provide essential cover and nesting for wildlife. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, the Conservation Reserve Program expires in 1995. Currently, 36.5 million acres are enrolled in the program and rapidly declining conservation funds will force nearly all land out of the program by the year 2001. Many of those concerned about protecting our natural resources are asking what will happen upon the program's expiration. If history repeats itself and current surveys are accurate, these grasslands and trees will be converted to cropland and our water, soil, and wildlife will be placed, once again, at risk.”