Earl Blumenauer: “Too often I have watched in the farm legislation that I have seen work through here that conservation ends up being the…”

“Too often I have watched in the farm legislation that I have seen work through here that conservation ends up being the piggy bank for the farm bill. This is an area that is shortchanged to deal with more powerful political interests. Well, if the American public knew what was at stake, there would be no more powerful interest than protecting the environment. Two-thirds of the farmers who apply are turned down. This is not right. Increased conservation programs help balance out some of the inequities in the farm program and provide benefits to everybody. I urge you to support family farmers, the environment and sportsmen, and support a good farm bill by supporting Mr. Kind's motion to instruct.”