In his State of the Union address, the President promised to "promote energy independence for our country, while dramatically improving the environment." Last year Congress took an important step toward achieving greater energy independence by providing new incentives for renewable energy production in Sections 6401 and 9006 of the Farm Bill. The programs authorized in these two sections will not only help provide needed diversification of our agricultural sector, but also will diversify U.S. energy sources, encourage domestic renewable energy production, protect our environment, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
 

The Value-Added Agricultural Market Product Development Grants program was established to help American farmers adapt to the challenges of marketing their products in an increasingly global economy. The program helps farmers stay in business by developing innovative new uses for their products and enter into new markets. The Renewable Energy System and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program would provide grants and loans to farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses to help them reduce their energy bills and become net producers of renewable energy. The greatest strength of American agriculture has always been the entrepreneurial spirit of our farmers and ranchers.
 

Sections 6401 and 9006 of the 2002 Farm Bill will promote rural economic development, greater energy independence, and improved environmental quality. Please support the intent of Congress by preserving the non-discretionary funding for these programs. Thank you.


 

Sincerely,