Mark Udall: “I support this bipartisan amendment because it will help farmers and ranchers to be even better stewards of their lands.…”

“I support this bipartisan amendment because it will help farmers and ranchers to be even better stewards of their lands. Farmers provide the backbone of America by putting food on our tables. But agriculture is a hard business. Food prices fluctuate for a number of reasons, which in turn can affect the demand and price for certain crops. Poor crop prices hit farmers were it hurts the most--the pocketbook. When a farmer is having trouble taking care of his or her own family, taking care of the land can become a less important priority. But we can change that with this amendment, which will put a new and greater emphasis on successful conservation programs. The Wetland Reserve Program, the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program, Farmland and Ranchland Protection Program, and the Conservation Reserve Program are just a few of the programs that are the focus of the amendment. These programs give incentives to farmers to restore wetlands, improve natural habitats for endangered species and hold the line against urban sprawl by preserving open space. Farmers and ranchers want to participate in these programs. Unfortunately, many cannot. These programs have not had the resources to allow everyone who qualifies to take part. This amendment will go far to remedy that situation. This farm bill will leave a lasting mark and provide the direction for American farm policy for the next 10 years. So, it is important that we make it as good as we can.”