Huntsville Leader

Congressman Dale W. Strong, representing Alabama, introduced the Winter Canola Study Act in Washington. The legislation is backed by Congressmen David Kustoff of Tennessee and Tracey Mann of Kansas. This proposed act mandates the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency to evaluate the current gap in crop insurance for double-crop grown winter oilseeds such as canola.

The act also underscores the potential economic and environmental advantages of double-crop grown canola, advocating its role in creating a more viable market for farmers. It aims to bolster rural communities, generate employment, and enhance energy security.

"The Winter Canola Study Act would give North Alabama farmers crucial new information and broaden the opportunity to plant winter canola as an alternative double crop option," stated Congressman Strong. His collaboration with Representative Kustoff in introducing the legislation aims to provide a competitive edge to farmers.

Congressman Kustoff expressed, "America's farmers keep our economy going by putting food on the shelves and fuel in our tanks. By allowing our farmers to plant winter canola in the off-season, the Winter Canola Study Act will expand opportunities for growers and producers across the nation."

Congressman Mann highlighted the importance of the act by stating, "Harnessing the potential of American-grown commodities like winter oilseed supports the entire agriculture and energy supply from grower to consumer. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to help facilitate the growth of energy-abundant and sustainable fuel feedstocks by supporting access to risk management tools, research into yield improvements, and the environmental benefits of new crop rotations."

For more detailed information, the full text of the bill is available.