Interview

Excerpt

▀ JSWC. Mr. Secretary, how would you describe your personal commitment to conservation?

▀ I see soil and water conservation as one of several requirements for a strong, prosperous agriculture. Over the long term, we need conservation if we are to continue the business of agriculture—and that business is production of food and fiber.

Nothing in this country is more precious than our renewable soil, water, and plant resources that have been so instrumental in producing the abundance enjoyed by American consumers and millions of others around the world. We must ensure that future generations have the opportunity to feed, clothe, and house themselves—an opportunity that we have come to take for granted. One of the best ways to do this is to promote the conservation and wise use of our renewable natural resources. As secretary, I intend to do just that.

▀ JSWC. Are there any particular conservation-related goals that you have set for yourself during your tenure as secretary?

▀ My goals in conservation are the same as my goals in all other phases of agriculture—to carry out the legislative authorities and intent of the farm bill as well as I …