News Release

Washington, DC - Idaho has a large role to play in increasing our nation's global competitiveness, according to Idaho Senator Mike Crapo. For that reason, Crapo today announced his GOAL Initiative and Tour Day at the Idaho National Laboratory on March 20, 2007. GOAL stands for Global Opportunities for Agriculture at the Laboratory.

Crapo, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said the GOAL Tour Day will spotlight what the INL offers in terms of energy and agricultural issues such as commodity research, research of biofuels, cellulosic ethanol and other alternative energy ideas, in addition to other initiatives that will increase Idaho's stature regarding global competitiveness.

"The key to our nation's economic future is global competitiveness. One way to make us more competitive is to utilize resources like the Idaho National Laboratory," Crapo said. "Idaho is home to cutting-edge research and technology in the areas of renewable energy, applications for alternative fuels, commodity development and many, many other issues that will be highlighted during the GOAL Tour Day."

Crapo's GOAL Tour Day at the INL will tie in with other agricultural events in Idaho during March. Idaho Agriculture Week is March 19—23, and the Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce hosts an Ag Day forum luncheon on March 20.

Crapo will address attendees from Washington, DC, during the INL event. Those expected to attend the GOAL Tour Day include Idaho commodity groups, agricultural leaders, Congressional staff, university and research staff, agricultural bankers and lenders, and the Idaho FFA.

To directly link to this news release, please use the following address: http://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=268706

# # #

FOR INTERESTED MEDIA: A radio actuality is available by calling 1-800-545-1267. Press 327 at any time during or after the greeting and instructions. You can also access the actuality through the Internet at http://src.senate.gov/radio/.