Mike Johanns Farm Quotations

This report will provide the first USDA assessment of the effects of Hurricane Katrina on our farmers and ranchers, ... While it will take some time to determine the full impact of both the hurricane and drought, this report will give us some insight into the extent of the damage.

Let me be clear, the Congress will be writing the next farm bill in 2007, and I am deeply concerned the administration is using the current negotiations to reshape farm policy without the full input of Congress and grassroots support,

We fully expect to be a key player in the next farm bill, ... could possibly result in a specific proposal.

The 2007 farm bill will affect America's entire agricultural community, so I believe our entire agricultural community should have a say in the process. I welcome input from across the nation about what is working and what we can do to improve farm policy.

Approximately 16 million acres subject to CRP contracts expire in 2007. Fulfilling President Bush's directive to allow eligible farmers and ranchers to re-enroll or extend their CRP contracts helps ensure that the quality of soil, water, air and wildlife benefits of CRP continue across the nation for years to come.

I describe the current farm bill as perhaps the most high-risk approach we could take for our nation's farmers and ranchers in the future, ... Some have expressed concern about giving up what is considered to be the current safety net. I ask you to contemplate the purpose of a safety net, and whether current farm programs truly fulfill that purpose for American agriculture.

We are doing everything we can to help our Gulf Coast producers recover from the affects of Hurricane Katrina, ... The assistance announced today is an important component of USDA's efforts and our commitment to help farmers and ranchers rebuild their operations.

The farmer in Central City, Nebraska, is feeling the impact of this. The farmer in Hope County, Iowa, is feeling this,

We want to send a signal as to what the farm bill will be so that producers can make decisions.

I'm pleased that USDA can offer assistance to farmers and ranchers who have sustained losses from Hurricane Katrina, ... This agriculture disaster designation will enable eligible producers to apply for low-interest emergency loans from USDA to help cover their losses. This announcement is a part of our commitment to help farmers and ranchers to rebuild their operations.