OKLAHOMA CITY – American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR), an Oklahoma City based general farm organization and mutual insurance company, said it is pleased with the shift in the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) policy on climate change.

“As more data is examined relative to how cap and trade legislation will impact agricultural operations around the country it becomes very clear that all agricultural operations are not equal in potential benefits,” said Terry Detrick, AFR President.  “I believe that after further examination benefits are at best optimum in only the Midwest Corn Belt which is not where most wheat is grown.  Additionally, NAWG which has always wanted to see export opportunities in a fair and free trade environment, also realize the competitive disadvantage that would be placed on U.S. wheat producers if other major carbon emitting countries of the world do not follow suit in curbing emissions. This is the right decision and we are pleased that NAWG has adjusted their policy position which is consistent with AFR’s policy.”

Earlier in the week NAWG directors re-crafted their policy position to opposing greenhouse gas legislation or regulation projected to have a negative impact on production agriculture.

“One must consider the net economic impact on agriculture – changing increased input costs – and not just a potential economic benefit from the sale of carbon credits.  You bet, we all want those carbon credit benefits should such legislation materialize but the bottomline net impact is what all farmers and ranchers should evaluate,” explained Detrick.  “I’m afraid we will be losers under the current House cap and trade plan and should the Senate follow a similar course the results will be the same.”

Detrick is also a past national president of the NAWG.

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