[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 148 (Wednesday, October 29, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S11369]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

 RECOGNIZING MINNESOTA'S SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT EMPLOYEES

 Mr. GRAMS. Mr. President, I rise today to bring to the 
attention of the Senate the dedication and hard work of many 
individuals in my home State of Minnesota.
  During this past years CRP signup, at least 275 employees from 
Minnesota's 91 Soil and Water Conservation Districts donated over 6,000 
hours assisting U.S. Department of Agriculture employees, ensuring the 
signups success. Without their efforts, there is little doubt the work 
would not have been done on time and in such an efficient manner. Their 
work, along with the work of USDA employees, should not go unnoticed.
  Mr. President, the Conservation Reserve Program is a vital program 
for the people of my State. It provides incalcuable benefits to 
farmers, sportsmen, conservationists, the wildlife, and, therefore, all 
American citizens. I have been, and will continue to be, a vocal 
supporter of a strong and balanced Conservation Reserve Program. It is 
simply good for Minnesota and good for our Nation.
  In closing, Mr. President, with the combined efforts of Congress, the 
USDA, farmers and people like those at Minnesota's Soil and Water 
Conservation Districts, we can ensure the continued success and 
viability of the Conservation Reserve Program well into the 21st 
Century.

                          ____________________