To move our nation's bounty into the domestic and global marketplace requires an efficient, well-maintained transportation network and other support systems. Cenex Harvest States firmly agrees with a key conclusion in a recent U.S. Department of Agriculture report on transportation that says adequate, cost-effective transportation will play a vital role in achieving goals such as increasing farm income, enhancing agricultural exports and promoting rural economic development.
Agriculture views transportation from an inter-modal perspective.
Truck, rail, waterways and pipelines all are major parts of the transportation equation for agriculture. We believe the federal government's role should focus on providing incentives for increased efficiency, as opposed to greater regulation. At the same time, though, it's clear the federal government must act on some issues and continue other major tasks that the private sector lacks the authority and resources to pursue. Providing essential support and funding for the maintenance of the critical lock and dam systems. Establishing a comprehensive technological infrastructure that allows rural America to fully participate in electronic commerce and communication.