Yesterday, the Bipartisan Farm Bill passed the Senate 87-13 and passed the House 386-47! This is a big win for wildlife because the Farm Bill’s conservation programs play important roles in protecting America’s water supplies and wildlife habitats, such as shrublands, wetlands, and forests. The Bill also strengthens the tools to conserve and manage land while protecting our water quality, wildlife habitats, and soil health for landowners, foresters, and farmers.
In this day and age, it is exciting to see both houses and both parties in Congress to work together to reauthorize this important legislation, and we are proud of our NH leadership in Washington representing our interests.
The Bill includes “Shaheen-Kuster Provisions” that expand the Northern Border Regional Commission that support community and economic development efforts in northern New Hampshire. NH Audubon thanks Congresswoman Annie Kuster – a champion for these issues who sat on the conference committee negotiating Farm Bill improvements and reauthorization.  We applaud her efforts to ensure that Farm Bill programs are strong.  Thanks equally go out to Senator Jeanne Shaheen also championed these issues to ensure the Farm Bill provided excellent opportunities for wildlife habitat in New Hampshire.