SCR 1 – FINAL VERSION
02/17/05 0233s
01Jun2005… 0714h
2005 SESSION
08/03
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 1
This resolution endorses a farm viability task force.
02/17/05 0233s
01Jun2005… 0714h
05-0441
08/03
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
In the Year of Our Lord Two Thousand Five
A RESOLUTION endorsing a farm viability task force.
Whereas, farming and other agricultural interests are a vital part of New Hampshire’s economy and need much more attention; and
Whereas, they intertwine many different state agencies and programs, which need each other for survival and growth; and
Whereas, University of New Hampshire cooperative extension needs a full examination to ensure that the programs are able to and are supporting the agricultural interests of the state; and
Whereas, the agricultural interests of the state expressed overwhelming concern that the University of New Hampshire cooperative extension needs to be properly funded, particularly an increased commitment to funding agricultural extension specialist positions, in order to continue serving them properly; and
Whereas, there are laws, rules, and regulations that are hindering the economic viability of New Hampshire farms; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:
That a farm viability task force comprised of 15 people be established by the governor, which would include agricultural agencies and all agricultural interests, and to include in its duties:
I. Reviewing and utilizing the 1979 New Hampshire food policy committee report, studying and documenting the role and contributions New Hampshire agriculture plays in a healthy and safe local food supply and in maintaining open space; and
II. Exploring the need and options for funding the University of New Hampshire cooperative extension agriculture positions; and
III. Studying the applicability and benefit of the farm viability programs found in our neighboring states to New Hampshire agriculture; and
IV. Identifying current and potentially burdensome rules and regulations to agriculture and ways the state of New Hampshire can assist; and
V. Promoting and expanding agricultural based tourism, community supported agriculture, farmers’ markets, farm stands, agricultural fairs, the horticulture industry, and pick-your-own enterprises.
Approved: June 16, 2005