U.S. Senator Pat Roberts

As one of the top agriculture producing states in the country, Kansas has long been known as the breadbasket of America. But, with the emergence of a global marketplace, Kansas farmers and ranchers also play a significant role in feeding people around the world. It is no exaggeration to say that American farmers and ranchers produce the highest quality and safest food in the world.
 
I am proud to serve as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. Farming is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous occupations in the United States. Equipment costs are intensive and the success or failure of a crop often depends on weather and other factors that producers cannot control. Due to the important role agriculture plays in our national security and the Kansas economy, I strongly support policies to maintain agriculture programs through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In farm country, investments into production agriculture and research are an investment in both the security of our country and the future of our farms and rural communities.
 
In Kansas , the success of our state’s economy often relies upon the weather. With over 65,000 farms statewide, agriculture production contributed over $12 billion in cash receipts in 2009. Kansas consistently leads the nation in the production of wheat, grain sorghum and cattle. Our farmers and ranchers are responsible for one out of every five jobs in the state. Advances in technology have increased production efficiency, quality and yields. As a former Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee and the current Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I understand and appreciate the contribution of production agriculture to the health and success of our nation. Until Congress finds a way to control the weather for the betterment of our farmers and ranchers, I will continue to fight for policies that provide producers with choices, a strong safety net, adequate risk management tools and open markets.