Sen. Conrad says Farm Bill legislation could be tought fight

Minot, N.D. (AP) North Dakota Senator Kent Conrad says the fight for a new federal farm bill could be a tough one.

Conrad has been holding hearings in Minot and Williston on the proposal. He says there's a proposal in the House that would gut the existing farm program, and he says that would mean big trouble for North Dakota.

Conrad says farm bill supporters in northern states might have to work closer with southern state congressmen to ensure a farm bill gets passed.

Some farmers are seeking a permanent federal disaster program.

North Dakota Farmers Union President Robert Carlson suggests taking money out of direct payments to farmers to fund it.

North Dakota Farm Bureau president Eric Aasmundstad says crop insurance would be better.

Conrad and North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson say improved crop insurance won't replace a disaster program.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-06-07 1110CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list