The following message is forwarded from Rural UPdates. 1 AGRIBUSINESS LOBBY THREATENS SENATE FARM BILL GAINS This week, as Senate and House conference committee members get ready to debate the final Farm Bill, committee staff members have been busy identifying disagreements in policy areas. After this initial "walk through" it is evident that many important conservation and pro-family farm provisions won in the Senate face uncertain futures. Opposition, particularly from the agribusiness lobby in the House of Representatives threatens to erode benefits gained in conservation and competitive practices. Issues that need continued support are: commodities payment limitations, EQIP provisions, the packer ownership ban and a suite of conservation incentive initiatives. It's not too late to take action and CALLS ARE STILL NEEDED to preserve these important measures in the Farm Bill! To learn what you can do visit: www.familyfarmer.org/signon.pdf 2. STRONG SUPPORT FOR SENATE CONSERVATION AND ENERGY TITLES In an amazing and timely response over 300 organizations from 47 states and the District of Columbia signed onto a letter to Farm Bill conferees asking them to adopt, in full, the Senate versions of the Conservation and Energy titles. This diverse array of groups, representing environmentalists, family farmers, hunters, clean energy advocates, and religious and community activists, told House and Senate conferees that "Passage of the Senate titles will not only improve environmental protection, energy security, and natural resource conservation, but will also provide significant new income streams for farmers and ranchers and rural communities." This effort solidly demonstrates the power that diverse allied grassroots and national groups have shown in forcing improvements in conservation and farmer incentives in the next Farm Bill. As final negotiations proceed it remains to be seen whether the House conferees and the White House will listen. To view the letter and groups signed on by state, visit: http://www.familyfarmer.org/22602.html Erin Jordahl Director, Iowa Chapter Sierra Club 3839 Merle Hay Road, Suite 280 Des Moines, IA 50310 515-277-8868 [log in to unmask] [log in to unmask]