Senator Jeff Merkley said he’s happy to see additional dollars spent to help farmers and the environment.  Merkley is the ranking democrat on the Ag Subcommittee of Appropriations.  He said he’s happy to see what he calls a massive increase in spending on broadband infrastructure improvements.

 

“A tenfold increase in rural broadband funds because you really can’t sustain the economy of a small town if you don’t have broadband.  It’s so important for people to be functioning in this modern society and not have to move to a city.”

 

Merkley saidhe’s also pleased to see the Rural Energy Saving Program, Rural Development Program and the Rural Water Development program continue to benefit the ag community.

 

Merkley traveled across Oregon last week while the Senate was on recess.

 

 

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com

More From PNW Ag Network