Opening Statements

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

Good afternoon. Thank you all for being here with us today to discuss how the future of agriculture can be sustained through enhancing the rural/urban coalition. Here in the Agriculture Committee we have seen challenges in enacting the Agriculture Act of 2014. If we do not mend the divide between rural and urban areas and foster a widespread understanding of the food and fiber industries and the impact they have on everyday life, it is likely we may face the same challenges in enacting future farm bills.  Bridging the gap between rural and urban areas is essential to the passage and implementation of future food and agricultural legislation.

The Committee strives to promote policies that will protect and increase access to safe and affordable food, but has encountered opposition from organizations and individuals who do not see the need for continued Federal involvement. We hope that by strengthening the relationship between rural and urban communities a better understanding of the food and fiber needs of all Americans can be achieved and ultimately, the challenges confronting the production, processing and distribution of those products can be addressed.

Today’s hearing is the first in a series that will highlight programs and activities which support the enhancement of a rural/urban coalition. It is fitting that for our introductory hearing, we have 17 distinguished Delegates from the National 4-H Conference with us. Since its inception, 4-H has been a model for bridging the gap between rural and urban communities. Since 1890, 4-H has brought together youth from various backgrounds to help them better understand the agriculture industry and the use of natural resources. Through exposure to agriculture education, we can develop a culture of agriculture advocacy in today’s youth and grow the rural/urban relationship.

For the past several years, youth participants in the National 4-H Conference have met with Members of Congress, and made presentations to Federal agencies, and House and Senate Agriculture Committee staffs. . Today, the 4-H participants will initiate what will be an ongoing discussion regarding the challenges associated with food and fiber production, enhancing global food security, and how these challenges affect the future of agriculture. In addition to our 4-H Delegates we are delighted to have Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Krysta Harden, join us to offer opening remarks.

While the Committee is aware that the challenges we face will not be resolved overnight, we believe it is vital to the future success of agriculture to begin the conversation today.

I now recognize the Ranking Member, Ms. Delbene for her opening remarks.