Forestry Title a Farm Bill Sticking Point

As agriculture eagerly awaits a Farm Bill, another hurdle has emerged.  Now, a forestry dispute appears to be in the way, according to Politico.  Pat Roberts, chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, continues to insist that the conference committee negotiators are “close” to reaching an agreement.  He said finding an agreement on the forestry title is the biggest obstacle.

That’s because lawmakers are considering whether or not the title will include active management of areas at risk to wildfires, a request by President Trump but opposed by Democrats and environmental groups.

Opposition said active forest management could “devastate forests” and “wipe out plants and animals.”  Roberts said if the issue is settled, “that would indicate that the light went from yellow to green” on the entire conference report.

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