Hoeven champions $50M+ for ND ag research & innovation

By Scout Nelson

Senator John Hoeven has played a crucial role in advancing North Dakota's agricultural sector by ensuring the Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill passes.

This legislative achievement funnels essential support towards agricultural research and policy innovation, marking a significant milestone for the state's agribusiness.

Key allocations and initiatives introduced by Hoeven include:

• Establishment of a New Agriculture Policy Research Center at NDSU: The $2 million-funded center aims to establish NDSU as a national leader in agricultural policy research, addressing agricultural challenges through detailed policy and economic analysis, aligning with other top universities' research efforts.
• Agricultural Research Funding: Over $50 million is allocated to North Dakota's agriculture research, including projects under the Agriculture Research Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture, enhancing the state's leading role in agricultural research.
• Renovations at the ARS Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center: An additional $3 million is dedicated to support further renovations at this key research facility in Fargo, ensuring that it continues to provide top-notch research infrastructure.
• AgTech Cooperative Agreement: To foster innovation in agricultural technology, $2 million continues the partnership between Grand Farm, NDSU, and ARS. This cooperation is aimed at advancing technological solutions in farming and agribusiness.

Additional priorities secured by Hoeven that bolster support for agriculture and livestock include:

• Full Funding for Farm Service Agency Loans: Ensuring farmers have access to necessary capital through guaranteed and direct loans.
• Wetland Mitigation Banking Program: With $2 million funding, this program supports farmers in remaining conservation compliant, promoting sustainable farming practices.
• Water Bank Program Funding: Another $2 million is allocated to support water conservation efforts, crucial for sustainable agriculture and livestock health.
• Blackbird Depredation Management: $500,000 is designated to manage blackbird populations in the Northern Great Plains, protecting crops and livestock feed sources.
• Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Prevention: Maintaining $17.5 million in funding for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to combat CWD, a critical effort for protecting wildlife and livestock.
• Cattle Contract Library Pilot Program: Continuing support for this program to enhance transparency and fairness in cattle marketing.
• CFIUS Membership for the Secretary of Agriculture: Ensuring agricultural interests are considered in foreign investments, protecting U.S. farmland and resources from foreign threats.

Senator Hoeven's efforts underscore a comprehensive approach to supporting North Dakota's agricultural sector, emphasizing research, innovation, and sustainability to ensure the prosperity of farming and ranching in the state.

Photo Credit -north-dakota-state-university