Strain in Washington Meetings

by Don Molino

Louisiana Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry Dr. Mike Strain is back in Washington today for talks at the White House and the US Department of Agriculture in his role as President of the National Association of Commissioners of Agriculture to discuss issues that are sure to come up in the New Year affecting agriculture. 

Strain said he was very glad the new continuing resolution from Congress approved just before lawmakers adjourned for Christmas contains funding for USDA’s Farm Service Agency that will allow FSA to keep making loans and loan guarantees in 2017.

Trade remains a critical issue affecting US farming operations.  According to Strain, higher commodity prices are tied to increased overseas trade.

And for the holidays, the good doctor has some safety tips:  be sure and use a cooking thermometer when cooking your holiday turkey or ham;  pay close attention to the cooking directions, especially for thawing out frozen meat;  after a meal, be sure and quickly put any left overs in the refrigerator because you can get sick from food that’s left out too long; everything used to cut up poultry products must be thoroughly cleaned with hot soapy water before re-using; do not put extension cords under a rug because they can become hot and start a fire.