[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 49 (Wednesday, March 21, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E608-E609]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        NATIONAL AGRICULTURE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK E. SOUDER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 21, 2007

  Mr. SOUDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National 
Agriculture Day,

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which is celebrated each year on the first day of spring.
  With more than 8,000 farms, Madam Speaker, agriculture plays a 
critical role in the economy of the Third District. We lead the state 
of Indiana in the production of cattle and calves, dairy products, 
sheep, and goats. As a state, Indiana has long been among the leading 
producers of corn and soybeans--planting more than 11 million acres--
and we are first in the nation in duck production, supplying 
approximately 30 percent of the nation's total.
  Because of the hard work and dedication of farmers and ranchers, 
Americans have become accustomed to a safe, abundant, and affordable 
supply of food and fiber. Even more remarkable, and often overlooked, 
is the fact that farmers and ranchers feed and clothe this nation with 
an increasing levels of concern for environmental stewardship and 
animal welfare. The well-being of livestock and the sustainability of 
the land is a top priority. Indeed, I have seen firsthand in my 
district the adoption of best-management practices to conserve soil, 
nutrients, and water, as well as crop protection products that not only 
improve the viability of agriculture but also prevent flooding and 
improve water quality for cities and towns downstream.
  In addition, as we are all aware, our country is now turning to the 
American farmer and rancher to help solve our energy crisis. We have 
placed a new interest in ethanol, and the agriculture industry has 
responded with vigor. Our goal of 7.5 billion gallons of ethanol will 
be attained by 2009 rather than 2012 as was expected. Some may say that 
our food supply is threatened by the push for ethanol. However, our 
farmers and ranchers have risen to the call before and will become an 
important part of our energy solution.
  Madam Speaker, agriculture's contributions to America's economy, 
culture, and history should be celebrated, and I ask that my colleagues 
join with me in wishing our farmers and ranchers continued success in 
the years ahead.

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