NPC APPLAUDS USDA'S ATTENTION ON SPECIALTY CROPS

As a co-chair of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, the NPC sent a letter this week to Secretary of Agriculture Johanns commending USDA's development of a detailed and innovative set of farm bill proposals, announced last week. The Coalition applauded USDA's understanding and acknowledgement of the messages on nutrition, promotion, conservation, market access, and pest and disease management provided during the farm bill listening sessions.

The NPC, along with other members of the Coalition, testified at the various hearing held across the country last year by USDA in their preparation for the new farm bill. NPC will continue discussions with USDA on the planting flexibility issue. The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance opposes the USDA proposed elimination of the planting flexibility restrictions.