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Witnesses representing the Rebuild Rural Coalition (RRC) testified today before the House Agriculture Committee at the hearing on rural infrastructure. They underscored the different needs of rural versus urban areas. Additionally, they discussed the competitiveness of American agriculture and viability of rural communities relying on improved roads and bridges, clean water, reliable electricity and broadband internet access.

The Rebuild Rural Coalition outlined its priorities today in a letter to Secretary Sonny Perdue in his role as Chair of the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity.

Farm Credit Council CEO Todd Van Hoose made the following statement today: Farm Credit appreciates the leadership of Senator Hoeven and Senators Boozman and Strange in introducing the Capital for Farmers and Ranchers Act. Given all of the challenges new producers face, it's important to modernize the size of FSA guaranteed and direct loans. Beginning farmers and ranchers need access to the credit required to become commercially viable and stay afloat during this agricultural downturn.

Witnesses representing the Rebuild Rural Coalition (RRC) testified today before the House Agriculture Committee at the hearing on rural infrastructure. They underscored the different needs of rural versus urban areas. Additionally, they discussed the competitiveness of American agriculture and viability of rural communities relying on improved roads and bridges, clean water, reliable electricity and broadband internet access.

Farm Credit continued its strong support last year for young, beginning, and small farmers across the country, according to figures released by the Farm Credit Administration today. By the end of 2016, Farm Credit had increased outstanding loan volume to all three categories, despite the current difficult economic cycle affecting U.S. farmers and ranchers.

Farm Credit Council CEO Todd Van Hoose made the following statement on the confirmation of Sonny Perdue as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture: "Congratulations to Secretary Perdue on his confirmation. Farm Credit looks forward to partnering with him in support of rural communities and agriculture. At a time when many farmers are facing challenges with low commodity prices and competitive overseas markets, Secretary Perdue's leadership at USDA will be critical. His deep, personal experience in agriculture will be a great asset as he works to maintain the safety net for U.S. Producers, open markets for U.S. agricultural products and rebuild rural infrastructure."