Ben Cardin

The introduction of large amounts of nitrogen into the environment has a number of undesirable impacts on water.

We need more help, that is why last year I suggested a nutrient trading program.

I appreciate very much that you have held the hearing.

It results in significant water quality problems, including harmful algae blooms and declines in wildlife and wildlife habitat.

EPA's preference on these issues.

Without objection, the record of the Committee will be held open for 2 weeks.

I believe that you and some of your former colleagues were responsible for a little provision in the 2008 Farm Bill called the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative.

The goal of today's hearing is to demonstrate that nutrient pollution is a national problem.

These in turn harm the fishing, recreation and service industries that are dependent on the health of those waterways.

Nutrient pollution from nitrogen and phosphorus has consistently ranked as one of the top causes of degradation of some of U.S. waters for more than a decade.

If there is no further business to come before the Senate, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate stand adjourned under the previous order. There being no objection, the Senate, at 8:30 p.m., adjourned until Friday, September 9, 2011, at…

There will be no rollcall votes during Friday's session. The next rollcall vote will be on Monday, September 12, no earlier than 5:30 p.m. ____________________

Most United States aid to Afghanistan is off budget, meaning it doesn't go through the Afghan Government.

I want to get to accountability for one moment.

I can tell you, if this was a business venture and if you don't have a good plan partners walk away.

It's a real challenge if you don't have land reform, it's a real challenge if they don't change their whole attitude toward women.

I think you've raised a very valid point about sustainability of the Afghan economy and sustainability of our projects.

There are certain standards that we cannot deviate from, including corruption, the empowerment of women, equality issues.

Well, if you would give us the length of time that the staff is there, that would be helpful for us to analyze, because numbers are important; experience is invaluable.

Will you have by the end of the year a game plan as to what type of industries within Afghanistan will meet those revenues that you're suggesting?

What's the timeframe for this?

They have to have a game plan that can replace an economy so that there's stability in their country, frankly.

Let me start by expressing my appreciation, and I think the appreciation of all the Members of the Senate, for the dedicated public servants who have been working in Afghanistan on the civilian side to rebuild that nation.

I couldn't agree with you more, 1 year is hardly enough to be able to understand the local community as it relates to overseeing contracts and making sure the money is going for its intended purpose.

The United States must also insist on accountability for this assistance, accountability for the money spent, and accountability for the effectiveness and success of these programs.