Good afternoon. I would like to welcome everyone to the Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research.

As many of you are aware, the Agriculture Committee has had a long interest in examining and promoting pollinator health.

I expect EPA's Science Advisory Board to follow Congressional intent and give farmers that voice so better policy can be made.

I am a little bit dismayed to hear that I won't be able to question General Peabody anymore.

We want to see some action, and I think this is a tool that should be utilized.

We all have the same goal. We want to see projects get started and projects get completed.

I want to see more investment in infrastructure, and I know you just mentioned where you are looking at different projects.

If we do not mend the divide between rural and urban areas, and foster a more widespread understanding of the food and fiber industries, and the impact that they have on everyday life, it is likely we may face the same challenges enacting future farm bills.

Consumers can already find products free of GMO ingredients with labels voluntarily placed by the manufacturers.

I appreciate your testimony about respecting all viewpoints and lowering the temperature in this very heated debate.

I prefer that the farmer have the choice to pick his market. I wouldn't mandate.