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U.S. Secretary Vilsack Meets with Agri-Growth Council Board of Directors

Secretary Vilsack speaks with Agri-Growth Chair Kristin Weeks Duncanson, Duncanson Growers, and Treasurer Steve Krikava, Land O'Lakes.

On a visit to Minnesota, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, took time to attend a private meeting with the Minnesota Agri-Growth Council Board of Directors. Secretary Vilsack was in Minnesota to sign a groundbreaking agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency to encourage on-farm conservation practices. Prior to making this announcement, the Secretary spoke to Agri-Growth Directors about the conservation program and answered an array of questions. The Secretary addressed concerns about the conservation program and stated that it's an entirely voluntary program, which has conservation practices that over 95% of farmers follow on their own accord. He spoke in depth about his projections for the upcoming Farm Bill. Dr. Allen Levine, University of Minnesota, had a chance to ask Secretary Vilsack about research and development and how the USDA is working to make this area a priority for legislation. In response, the Secretary noted that it's an area that is linked with national security and job growth, and that's what needs to be highlighted.

Secretary Vilsack answers a question from University of Minnesota Dean Allen Levine.