[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 111 (Thursday, July 31, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1572]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CONGRATULATIONS TO FARMLAND INDUSTRIES' AG-21

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BILL BARRETT

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 1997

  Mr. BARRETT of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to bring my 
colleagues' attention to a model pollution prevention program and to 
recognize several Nebraska farmers and their cooperatives for their 
achievements.
  On June 3, 1997, the Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] awarded 
one of eight 1997 Pollution Prevention Award to Farmland Industries' 
AG-21 program for successfully implementing pollution prevention 
measures in agricultural production. Farmland was the only agribusiness 
firm to receive the award this year. An interdepartmental committee 
within EPA's Region 7 evaluated nearly 30 applications for their 
innovative approaches, techniques, and use of technology in meeting 
pollution prevention goals.
  AG-21 is an innovative crop production process developed by the 
Farmland cooperative to raise the agronomic, environmental, and 
managerial standard for its cooperatives across North America. The 
program is a partnership between local cooperatives, their farmer 
members, and Farmland Industries. Each brings their unique skills and 
experience to the project, including support services, cutting-edge 
technology, and experience with environmentally sound management 
practices. The program's goal is to use the best crop production 
techniques and the latest technology to maximize crop potential in an 
environmentally friendly manner.
  I'm proud to be able to share this news with my colleagues. AG-21 is 
a unique program with enormous potential. For farmers and all 
Americans, AG-21 will improve crop yields and quality, sustainability 
of crop production, and economic yields. Also, it will increase 
conservation of soil and water, protection of the environment, and 
protection of human health.
  This is the future of environmental protection--it's not government 
regulation, but individuals working with their communities and 
businesses to protect the environment while feeding a hungry world. 
Congratulations to Farmland, its cooperatives, and my producers. Keep 
up the good work!

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