EPA ADMINISTRATOR ADDRESSES CORN CONGRESS

Hannah Ferguson

Jul 17, 2015  |  Today's News

 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy today spoke to the National Corn Growers Association about recent agency actions, including the Renewable Fuel Standard and Waters of the U.S.

More than 300 farmers and staffers were on hand to hear McCarthy’s explanation of the RFS and WOTUS decisions, as well as her broader commitment to work with the agricultural industry. McCarthy was invited to address the summer Corn Congress session by NCGA President Chip Bowling, a farmer from Newburg, Maryland.

“Like many farmers, I have concerns with the EPA’s recent actions, including the final Waters of the U.S. rule and proposed cuts to the Renewable Fuel Standard. I spoke to Administrator McCarthy to express those concerns,” said Bowling. “I invited her to Corn Congress because I wanted farmers to hear from her directly. To her credit, she had the courage to show up and talk to farmers face to face.”

“It’s important for our two organizations to engage in dialogue and find mutual understanding, and for NCGA to have a seat at the table when important regulatory decisions are being made," Bowling said. "I am encouraged by the Administrator’s promise to continue engaging with NCGA. We will hold her to that promise, and we hope to have thoughtful, productive conversations in the future. At the same time, we will continue to use all legal means to protect the rights of our farmers.”