Forum Editorial: Goehring for N.D. ag department
The Forum - 10/31/2006
Menoken, N.D., farmer Doug Goehring has our endorsement for North Dakota commissioner of agriculture. Goehring, who again is attempting to unseat incumbent Commissioner Roger Johnson, faces an uphill battle, if recent assessments of the race are accurate. But his qualifications and knowledge of the challenges of 21st century production agriculture qualify him for the job.
Johnson has been a good commissioner. It would be dishonest to conclude otherwise. But his farming philosophy seems rooted in the past. While he’s worked hard to expand the base of agriculture and agri-business in North Dakota, the basic underpinnings of his views about farming seem anti-business. And these days, farming requires a hard-nosed business model to compete in a hostile global marketplace.
Goehring is a serious student of the economics of modern agriculture. His knowledge of both the small and big issues is impressive. His ability to see the need for the integration of North Dakota farming into the global agriculture marketplace will serve the state well. He’s taken that knowledge and developed an approach to farming that embraces change, yet recognizes the legitimate need for a sound farm support program, including workable crop insurance and a permanent disaster provision in the farm bill.
Goehring is an active farmer. He knows what drought means because he’s been on the land. He knows what it takes to keep a family farm operation in the black when weather and/or market conditions turn bad.
To read the rest of the article please visit: http://www.in-forum.com/Opinion/articles/144560
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