Defenders Backs White House Opposition to Combest Farm Legislation

(10/03/2001) - WASHINGTON -- Defenders of Wildlife applauded the White House statement today opposing the "Farm Security Act of 2001" (H.R. 2646). "We agree wholeheartedly with President Bush’s misgivings on this Farm Bill, particularly where it falls short on innovative environmental programs and stewardship on working lands," said Rodger Schlickeisen, president of Defenders of Wildlife.

Today’s "Statement of Administration Policy" notes that "The Administration believes it is possible to craft a policy that is better for rural America, better for the environment, and better for expanding markets for our producers than H.R. 2646." These remarks echo the comments of Defenders of Wildlife and a broad coalition of conservation, sustainable agriculture, rural community, sportsmen’s and religious groups over the past months.

"The president is absolutely correct that the Farm Security Act fails to adequately support innovative environmental programs," said Schlickeisen. "Adopting the Boehlert/Kind/Gilchrest/Dingell conservation amendment would significantly improve this bill, placing a greater emphasis on helping farmers be good stewards of the land. This amendment addresses the president’s concerns by implementing innovative environmental programs, and by providing greater benefits for conservation on working lands. The Boehlert/Kind/Gilchrest/Dingell conservation amendment is also good for rural America and for family farmers."

Click here for more information on Defenders of Wildlife’s work on farm programs and agricultural conservation.

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Defenders of Wildlife is a leading non-profit conservation organization recognized as one of the nation's most progressive advocates for wildlife and its habitat. With more than 470,000 members and supporters, Defenders of Wildlife is an effective leader on endangered species issues.

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Contact(s):

Cat Lazaroff, (202) 772-3270