02/26/07 Congressional members get ag input

Washington Ag February 26, 2007 Fifth District U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers was among the members of Washington's congressional delegation that held meetings last week to get input from the agricultural community. The second term Republican says there have been good conversations at the farm bill listening sessions she has been holding. McMorris Rodgers: "I just think it helps me gain a better understanding. What I have taken away from these the most is just a better understanding on the ground is how the farm bill impacts a farmer out there on his farm." At a session in Spangle McMorris Rodgers heard discussion about the safety net for wheat, the impact of high fuel and fertilizer costs, a revenue safety net approach for all commodities, concern about decreased advanced payments, the issue of Canadian cattle imports; even the ability to fund agricultural support given the high costs of the war in Iraq. U.S Senator Patty Murray also met with farmers last week. In Snohomish County the Democratic lawmaker says they discussed the needs of specialty crop growers and their inclusion in the new farm bill, the consequences of last year's Election Day floods and the great need for farm labor and how immigration reform is affecting that need. Impacts from population growth and development were also an issue. I'm Bob Hoff.