On Monday, Secretary Vilsack held the second community forum of the Obama administration’s rural tour in Concord, New Hampshire. For USDA Press Release, click here. At this rural forum,
“Vilsack discussed how the USDA is working to promote a sustainable, safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply, ensure that America leads the global fight against climate change, and revitalize rural communities by expanding economic opportunities.”The Secretary also highlighted the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act activities that are going on in New Hampshire for rural communities. For more on the Rural Tour, click here to view it's website.
Finally, the Secretary assured dairy farmers in the attendance that help from the Administration was on the way. For Union Leader story, click here. The current price of milk per hundred weight is about $12, and the cost to produce is about $18 per hundred weight. According to the story,
Vilsack said in the next 10 days he will present a plan to allow cash-strapped dairy farmers to take out loans with lower interest rates and flexible payback plans.He also said that a commission to review the federal milk pricing system is in the works. The Secretary pointed out letting the dairy industry fail was not an option.
“Some say let the market go," Vilsack said. "One or two things would happen. There would either be a massive consolidation of farms or there would be much higher food prices. And you say maybe the higher food prices is the right answer? Most consumers wouldn't agree with that and so we have this delicate balance.”For more on this issue, click here to view a story by Holly Ramer of the Associated Press on Business Week's website.
The USDA also announced the allocations for the 2009-10 Dairy Export Incentive Program. To view press release, click here.
Posted: 07/07/2009
