NASDA is calling for ag research and trade funding in the Farm Bill to “level the playing field”

Progress in Washington for this year’s Farm Bill is nearing a halt, but that has not stopped ag groups from letting lawmakers know their priorities.

Ted McKinney, President of NASDA, says the U.S. is falling behind in funding for ag research and trade programs. He tells Brownfield Ag News spending on land grant institutions has been a low priority in the last two Farm Bills, and he feels that has led to a decline in new talent for the food and ag sector.

NASDA members are also calling for more market access and development. McKinney says that is the only way to level the playing field around the world.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

NCGA President Jed Bower joins us to discuss the House passage of year-round E15 legislation, potential opposition in the Senate, China trade talks, and spring planting progress.
Scouts say yields are landing close to USDA projections as they monitor drought pressure and abandonment concerns.
U.S. Wheat Associates is expanding into global fish feed markets, with early gains in South America and new opportunities emerging in Ecuador’s shrimp industry.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses the recent hantavirus outbreak linked to a South American cruise ship and Nebraska’s monitoring efforts on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Andy Tauer from the National Pork Board discusses efforts to boost pork demand and how the industry is responding to trade restrictions related to pseudorabies.