01/18/07 25 x 25 implementation plan coming soon

Farm and Ranch January 18, 2007 Renewable energy was the subject of the first hearing held by U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Tom Harkin and one of those testifying was Washington farmer and co-chairman of 25 x 25 Read Smith. 25 x 25 is a coalition whose goal is that by the year 2025 America's farms, ranches and forests will provide 25 percent of the total energy consumed in the U.S. from renewable sources, while still producing safe, abundant and affordable supplies of food, feed and fiber. Smith told the committee that a study commissioned last year, and done by the University of Tennessee, found that the 25 x 25 goal is doable. And as for economic impact: Smith: "By reaching 25 x 25 net farm income could increase by 37 billion dollars. With higher market prices an estimated cumulative savings in government payments could result in a 15-billion dollar savings." How do we reach the 25 x 25 goal? Smith said a detailed implementation plan has been in development the past six months. Smith: "Which will include policy recommendations to achieve this goal. The plan will be ready for Congress in February, in time for crafting the new farm bill." Smith urged that the energy title of the new farm bill be structured and funded to match both the challenge and opportunity facing the nation. I'm Bob Hoff and that's the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report on the Northwest Ag Information Network.