Agricultural Research Benefits Corn Industry and a Thriving Rural Economy, Notes NCGA (5-21-07)

In written comments to the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy, and Research May 11, the National Corn Growers Association said federal scientific research will continue to help answer real world problems while bringing value to agricultural producers.

Investment in research helps to produce plants that more successfully survive stress from disease, pests, and water variability,” NCGA said. “It also allows important work to be conducted on various efficiencies in corn production, including yield, crop rotation, and inputs. Research will also someday improve the efficiencies of corn lignocellulose to ethanol.”

NCGA pointed to the development of a competitive, merit-based National Institute of Food and Agriculture program and a strengthening of the Research Title in the 2007 farm bill to ensure that valuable agricultural research continues.

“The current level of federal spending in competitive food and agriculture research is
inadequate and needs to be significantly enhanced,” NCGA cautioned. “This spending would boost federal investment in agricultural research to help keep America's farmers
competitive in the world market and continue providing consumers with a safe, affordable, and nutritious food supply.”

NCGA also pointed out the importance of providing adequate funding to boost federal investment in agriculture research also urged Congress to give priority to research when allocating funds.

Click here for NCGA’s comments.