08/24/06 Salazar on farm bill, trade

First term Colorado Congressman John Salazar is one of only four fulltime farmers in Congress. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee he's been to many of the 18 states where listening sessions are held so producers can talk about the 2007 Farm Bill. Because of budget problems many want to see the 2002 farm bill continued. SALAZAR "Mainly because people understand its not going to be as, the new one is not going to be as generous. Another thing that we hear across the country is the high price of fuel." Speaking in Boise to the World Potato Congress luncheon yesterday Salazar sees agriculture as an answer to a national problem. SALAZAR "I firmly believe that within agriculture lies the key to this nation's success both in energy independence and in food production." Salazar says the US needs its own farm policy that will promote what he calls 'not necessarily free trade but fair trade." SALAZAR "I noted Secretary Johanns yesterday was every optimistic about the DOHA round. I don't share that optimism with him." The World Potato Congress shifts gears later today with the Farm Show opening in Wilder. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott