Bush Praises and Challenges Farmers and Ranchers

Washington, D.C. ---President George W. Bush is calling upon agriculture-related agencies, organizations and businesses to strengthen their commitment to provide quality, safety and health training to farmers, ranchers and their families. He also is calling upon citizens to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of those individuals and communities whose work in agriculture provides the quality food that we enjoy.

In a Sept. 17 proclamation signifying this week as National Farm and Ranch Safety and Health Week, President Bush stated:

"Our nation's agriculture industry represents 13 percent of our economy and remains central to our prosperity at home and our competitiveness abroad. At the core of this industry are countless dedicated farmers and ranchers working to produce foodstuffs at a level of efficiency and quality unrivaled around the globe. In many ways, agriculture ranks among the most crucial of our nation's industries; and yet, its reliability and productivity are often taken for granted."

Farmers and ranchers face significant challenges and uncertainty, from inclement weather to damaging insects. They also face health and safety dangers, from exposure to chemicals and the operation of machinery to tending livestock. Despite these hazards and uncertainties, American farmers and ranchers remain among the most dedicated and productive contributors to the nation's economy.

"I am committed to supporting the American farmer and rancher, and my administration will help those facing financial difficulties caused by storms, droughts or any other unforeseen natural catastrophe," Bush added. "In times of emergency, farmers and ranchers will get the assistance they need, when they need it."

He recently signed a $5.5 billion agriculture supplemental bill that affirms his commitment to maintaining a strong and healthy agricultural economy. The Bush administration also supports tax-deferred savings accounts to help farming and ranching families guard against downturns.

"To keep farms and ranches in a family from generation to generation, we are eliminating the death tax," Bush added.

Bush also vowed to work hard to ensure that agriculture is a top priority in future trade negotiations so that farmers can access foreign markets to sell their products.

"Our nation owes a dept of gratitude to our farmers and ranchers for helping to ensure stability in our economy, for providing food products that amply meet all our citizens' needs, and for representing what is best about America. They show the character and values that have made this country strong, values of love and family, faith in God, and respect for nature. We honor them by encouraging safe farming and ranching practices that improve and protect the lives of all farmers and ranchers," President Bush said.