Washington, D.C.-The Lieberman-Warner climate change legislation, which would mandate greenhouse gas reductions in agriculture and other segments of the economy, could add another $6 billion to $12 billion to the cost of doing business for U.S. farmers, according to a study conducted recently for The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) by Doane Advisory Services. Citing the Doane analysis of what is officially known as S3036 America’s Climate Security Act, TFI President Ford B. West said, “Despite having experienced the largest operating price increases in history during the last seven years, farmers may be in for a surprise when they learn of the impact this legislation would have on their bottom lines. While some growers may have an opportunity to receive payments for sequestering carbon if they use specific farming practices, the costs of this legislation appear to far outweigh any potential benefits.” West added, “The better something than nothing attitude that seems to have ruled the climate change debate up until now needs to be replaced by a measured look at solutions that do not threaten such a vital sector of the economy. Particularly, as the world experiences a food crisis, it is important that steps to control climate change do not penalize farmers in the world’s most efficient food production system.” American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Bob Stallman commended TFI for undertaking this important study on climate change, which he said could not come at a more critical time with Congress about to take up the climate change bill. Stallman added, “This study is very helpful to Farm Bureau in assessing the impacts on our producers.” Congressional observers doubt there will be any action this session even though the Senate voted June 2 to proceed to the bill. Republican opponents gearing for a fight likely will delay any final decision for the next Congress and new President.
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