Doug Bereuter: “American farmers are facing enormously difficult times. Producers continue to struggle with plentiful supplies and low…”

“American farmers are facing enormously difficult times. Producers continue to struggle with plentiful supplies and low prices. While there are no easy answers to this problem, there are some steps we can take to help farmers. Today, this Member is introducing a bill based upon extensive farmer and conservationist input, which can be part of the solution and provide much-needed agriculture relief. The legislation is known as the HERO bill, which stands for Habitat Enhancement Rotation Option. The HERO program would be voluntary and allow producers to enroll up to 25 percent of their cropland for periods of 2 to 4 years. It would complement the longer-term Conservation Reserve Program and thus provide farmers with payments as well as additional flexibility. The HERO program is designed to be used during times like the present with high supplies and low prices. In addition to helping farmers, it would provide significant environmental benefits. It would help rehabilitate cropland, enhance soil and water conservation, and improve wildlife habitat. I urge my colleagues to consider cosponsoring this legislation.”