Source: US HOUSE AG COMMITTEE, 4/16/16

On Tuesday, April 12, the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research gathered to hear a presentation by the National 4-H Conference participants concerning the future of agriculture in the United States. Last year, members of the Agriculture Committee heard from 17 distinguished 4-H delegates to the National 4-H Conference whose presentation highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between rural and urban areas. This year’s 16 delegates continued that discussion and expanded on the challenges associated with food and fiber production, how to enhance global food security, and how those challenges affect the future of agriculture. The House Agriculture Committee is proud to hear from America’s youth through programs like 4-H and engage with them on issues facing the agriculture industry and the opportunities available to address those challenges. 

On Wednesday, April 13, the House Agriculture Committee held a hearing to examine the oil and gas industry’s impact on rural America. While the committee focuses primarily on the economic impacts of agriculture, many rural communities that depend upon agriculture also rely upon the economic activity generated by energy production. Members heard from a panel of witnesses whose rural communities and livelihoods are directly impacted by oil and gas production. The oil and gas sector plays a major role in providing a significant number of good paying jobs for Americans. These jobs give rural America the ability to retain young people with new opportunities, attract new residents, and increase the standard of living for all people of the community. 

For more information on the hearings, click here.