Maine Farmers are Opposed to any Consolidation that will Eliminate the Maine Department of Agriculture.

For Immediate Release

Augusta, Maine, January 30, 2008 –

Maine is fortunate and is the envy of many states to have a diverse and innovative agriculture sector.  Traditional commodity producers are adapting for the future.  New farmers bring new products and approaches to the sector.

Maine agriculture needs a strong and independent advocate within State government and with the general public.  We oppose consolidation proposals that would leave the agricultural sector out of important policy discussions.

The current proposals to consolidate Maine’s natural resource agencies will produce almost no cost savings and limit the opportunities to grow the agricultural sector in the future.  We think there’s a better path to follow – one that involves strengthening the capacity of Maine’s natural resource industries to grow long into the future.

Our vision is based on:

1. Support for research and development – Maine farmers and food processors are willing and eager to innovate.  They need the support of a strong research structure at the University of Maine and other institutions.

2. Strengthen farmers as leaders on land and water stewardship.

3. Integrate agriculture with rural economic development strategies – educate Maine citizens as to the economic strength of individual farms and the ability of Maine farmers to provide food security, keeping dollars in the local community, and quality of Maine products.

4. Create the next generation of farmers and farmland.

5. Build the connection between health and healthy eating.

The way to support our farms is to strengthen the programs and resources that help farmers grow their business not to reduce them.