Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack spoke to over 7000 agricultural producers and industry members during his 6th appearance at Commodity Classic on Friday. Sec. Vilsack began by stating that he “was in the presence of greatness” and went on to thank farmers for all that they do on a daily basis. He also thanked farmers for their work on the Farm Bill when it came to grassroots support and involvement in motivating legislation.
Vilsack then addressed concerns surrounding the Farm Bill and announced a one-time extension by the USDA for producers to reallocate base acres and update yields for 2014 Farm Bill programs ARC and PLC. The final day to update information is now March 31, 2015. For more information, growers can contact local FSA offices.
Secretary Vilsack went on to discuss trade agreements and concerns surrounding TPA and TPP. “Trade is important for stability, income, and for jobs.” he says. “We’re currently negotiating with countries in Asia to extend our trading opportunities to lower tariffs, to improve standards, to improve stability and decision-making based on science and rules.” Vilsack stressed the importance “…for the USA to balance the Chinese influence in Asia, ensure that agreements have high standards that allow us a level playing field, and allow us to compete effectively and fairly in this emerging and great market opportunity.”
Sec. Vilsack ended the trade conversation by delivering a call to action to Commodity Classic attendees: “I’m asking you today to get engaged, to help us convince this country that it’s in our economic and national security interests to get these trade agreements passed.”
He was met with applause when he went on to address water conservation concerns, “American farmers have done an amazing job with stewardship, they have cared deeply about the land, they know the condition of every acre of soil they farm. They understand and appreciate the impact and importance of water better than anyone else because their livelihood depends on that soil and that water.” Vilsack referenced the number of producers engaged in conservation programs, the acres enrolled, and knowledge and commitment that producers have to taking care of the land.
Secretary Vilsack closed by addressing RFS: “There is an opportunity for us here to send an amazing message for corn production and to highlight the greatness of American agriculture. We need to work together to embrace higher blends of fuel.”
Listen to Secretary Vilsack’s complete remarks and press conference here: Vilsack Addresses Commodity Classic Vilsack Press Conference
2015 Commodity Classic Photo Album
