Congressman Reid Ribble wrote a letter to Chairman Lucas and Ranking Chairman Peterson of the House Agriculture Committee highlighting the major priorities of Wisconsin farmers, forest owners, and other agricultural stakeholders. Congressman Ribble wanted to advocate on behalf of Wisconsin’s agricultural and forestry communities and give voice to their needs before the upcoming Farm Bill is sent to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction.
“Wisconsin’s agricultural community represents a pillar of our state,” said Ribble. “Not only does Wisconsin’s economy heavily rely on dairy production and forestry, but we also produce significant cranberry and potato crops. While I strongly believe that spending cuts are necessary to decrease the federal debt and put our country on a more sustainable path, I want to make sure that they are done responsibly and effectively and with Wisconsin’s priorities in mind.
“There are many facets of agriculture and forestry that overlap and depend on one another, which is why I wanted to make sure and highlight the most important priorities. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee I have met with many different people associated with agriculture and forestry such as industry leaders, local farmers and small business owners. I want to make sure that the people who will be impacted the most by the Farm Bill have a voice in the debate and I hope this letter accomplishes that.”
Many people associated with the agriculture and forestry communities have praised Congressman Ribble for his efforts.
Bill Bruins, President, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation:
“Farmers stand ready to assist Congress in making difficult budget cuts. We want to make sure that when these cuts take place that there are adequate safety nets in place. Any cuts to conservation programs should be made in such a manner that we continue to protect the environment while focusing on meeting the demands of food for our country and the world. Congressman Ribble has been working closely with agriculture in Wisconsin to make sure these cuts are common sense and that efficiencies are made so we are doing more with less.”
Dick Krawze, Pine River Lumber Company, Long Lake, Wisconsin and Hardwood Federation Board Member representing Lake States Lumber Association:
“We are very appreciative to have a leader representing our interests in Wisconsin. Congressman Ribble understands the serious decline we are facing on our National Forests. Harvesting levels on the National Forest Lands in both Softwood and Hardwood stands has been reduced significantly Nationwide. For example, on the CNNF in Wisconsin, with an ASQ of 131 million board feet per year we have averaged 75 million feet or approximately 58%. In the previous 10 years we averaged 115 million feet or approximately 88%. Most of this decline can be blamed on the litigated timber sales and excessive paperwork required to sell federal timber. Where once 2 or 3 pages were common in the contracts, we now have hundreds of pages.”
Kevin Hoewisch, dairy producer and member of Family Dairies USA, Fremont, Wisconsin:
“As a 4th generation dairy farmer with a son who wants to enter dairying, a viable safety net is important to our business. Representative Ribble has recognized and supported some of the key tools that will help my operation and others in Wisconsin and we appreciate his efforts.”
John Pagel, dairy producer, Pagel’s Ponderosa, Kewaunee, Wisconsin:
“Congressman Ribble has been remarkable when listening to and seeking feedback from his constituents. He understands the importance of the dairy industry to the 8th Congressional District both socially and to our economy. I genuinely appreciate all the work he has done to ensure that dairy policy reform works for Wisconsin’s dairy farmers.”
Mike Bartling, Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin and Vice Chairman of the Board, Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.:
“The cranberry industry in Wisconsin is vital to preserving Wisconsin jobs and maintaining a positive trade balance. Continued research and market promotion programs are critical to the future growth of the industry and we applaud Congressman Ribble’s efforts.”
Denny Olson, President, Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association:
“Congressman Ribble’s letter to the House Agriculture Committee on the upcoming Farm Bill is another example of his dedication and relentless efforts to give Wisconsin and American citizens the ability to work and provide economic opportunity for their families and communities.”
Information used in this article was retrieved from a press release on Congressman Reid Ribble’s official website.
