Max Baucus: “in the book of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher spoke of how there is ``a time to plan, and a time to uproot.'' The American…”

“in the book of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher spoke of how there is ``a time to plan, and a time to uproot.'' The American farmer has known this truth from the first days when Indians first walked to this continent. Those of us who are privileged to represent rural States know well the times of American farmers and ranchers. No matter what the time, their concerns are never far from our thoughts. Times have changed for American agriculture, and for American jobs. In 1900, 37 percent of American workers worked in agriculture. Now, only about 2 percent do. Of course, it doesn't seem like 2 percent to rural States such as Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota, where agriculture can still account for as much as 50 percent of the economy. But that is the reality: American farmers are more productive than ever. And because productive American agriculture produces more than American households consume, exports are as important as ever. That is why American farmers have been among the strongest supporters of international trade. And it is about that intersection between American agriculture and international trade that I rise to speak today.”