U.S. Rep. Peter Welch says he hopes the farm bill will help stabilize milk prices for dairy farmers, include disaster insurance for vegetable growers and promote the use of local fruits and vegetables in school lunches.
Welch, a former member of the House Agriculture Committee, spoke Tuesday of his priorities for the farm bill, which is due to be discussed by the committee on Wednesday.
Welch says Vermont's agriculture sector is critical to the state's economy and the livelihoods of farmers across Vermont.
He says he also hopes the farm bill will protect nutrition programs from unreasonable cuts, provide support and organic programs and help Vermont's maple industry grow through federal support for research and promotion.
