Originally Posted by PitMarshall
Franc,
I wonder what impact there has been in the transformation of the "marginal" farm land in some of the more arrid parts in Iowa or western Nebraska that turned them into massive fields of corn? I remember 20 years ago some western parts were pretty dry with limited farming potential? How in the world is there suddenly enough water to grow that corn?
What about the Ogallala Aquifer? It has been going dry at an alarming rate for over 100 years and threatens to affect farming and grazing in over 8 states from Texas to the Dakotas... and the N.A. economy as a result. Now it can support corn production which is ultimately destined to augment fuel.
And what has happened to the levels of the Great Lakes over that same period of time? Could water could have been .... naaaahhh ... Enginee .... naahhhh .....
what about widening and deepening the Mississ ... naahhh .... How about those ocean going vessels navigating a river where canal horses used to ..... naahhh ....
It makes you wonder about priorities ...
Here's a kicker for you. Much of the good farmland is not availablefor use because it is sequestered in the CRP programs. Crop Reserve programs are designed to take acreage out of production to promote higher farm prices, conserve soils and improve wildlife habitat.
These lands are secured under CRP for ten years. You cannot take them out just to take advantage of a good crop year. Therefore farmers receiving a yearly fallow acreage payment from Uncle Sam are pouring fertilizers in poor scrap land to grow corn.
All of this is paid for thru the Agriculture subsidies. A no longer needed program that, in this case, is doing exactly the opposite of it's original intention.
Central farm planning did not work under Communism. It won't work under socialism. Even the American version of it.
Community Organizers, Ivyleague graduates and oil barons should not be messing with farmin' Especialy if they are politicians spending your tax dollars.
roadster with a stick