NCGA Continues Drive for Domestic Natural Gas Production (9-18-06)

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) encourages the House and Senate to come to an agreement on comprehensive legislation to open the Outer Continental Shelf for domestic natural gas production before the end of the legislative sessions.

In letters to both chambers last week, NCGA stated growers and consumers need legislation that would alleviate high natural gas prices and expand our domestic energy resources.

“With high demand, supply and delivery limitations, and constraints on global energy sources, now is the time to open offshore production for the long-term sustainability of U.S. energy markets,” the letter said.

NCGA President Gerald Tumbleson reiterated that message while he was in Washington, D.C., last week meeting with government representatives, congressional staff and other commodity groups.

“The U.S. agriculture sector has continued to contend with the volatile situation regarding high natural gas prices and the tight supplies,” said Tumbleson. “Producers will continue to voice our concerns with the United States’ need for more domestic energy supplies, and we are continuing to encourage House and Senate members to continue the open dialogue and work to pass comprehensive natural gas and energy development legislation. It is a win for the country’s consumers of energy, no matter who you are.”

The letter touched on the importance of natural gas to growers, and it also touched on the adverse effect natural gas prices have on the production and continued growth of the ethanol industry.

To view the letter in its entirety please click here letter.