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 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.
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.
Listen to Secretary Vilsack’s complete remarks and press conference here: [wpaudio url=”http://www.zimmcomm.biz/commodity-classic/classic15-vilsack-address.mp3″ text=”Vilsack Addresses Commodity Classic”] [wpaudio url=”http://www.zimmcomm.biz/commodity-classic/classic15-vilsack-press.mp3″ text=”Vilsack Press Conference”]
2015 Commodity Classic Photo Album
