Fuse farm, energy policy to help rural areas, nation

Congressional consideration this summer of energy legislation and a new farm bill at first blush appears to be isolated undertakings. But they should not be. If Congress approaches these two bills strategically, it can save taxpayers money, dramatically expand renewable energy and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

An economically vibrant future for American agriculture will require a more expansive and creative approach to federal farm policy and federal energy policy. We envision continuing the federal commitment to the financial security and stability of the nation’s farm community, especially as globalization, technological change, environmental concerns and international pressure to cut traditional subsidies all pose new challenges for agriculture.
At the same time, however, we believe that with the right policies in place, growth in renewable electricity, biofuels and an emerging carbon market will allow American farmers to derive a much greater share of their income from the energy marketplace.

Based on work with farmers, energy analysts and a host of new economic analyses over the last 18 months, we have developed a comprehensive set of recommendations calling for major changes in current agricultural and energy policies. These proposals are designed to help American farmers take advantage of new market opportunities, especially in energy production, while reforming existing subsidy programs to better serve both taxpayers and farmers.

Des Moines Register