There is potential for tremendous growth in the export market for barley and its value-added product, which if realized, will generate substantial new employment and federal revenue. Continued investment by the federal government in strong barley research programs is needed to keep the U.S. at the forefront in the development and implementation of new technologies to improve barley productivity and quality. The payback from modest federal investments in barley research exceeds by many times the cost of the expenditures. The private sector alone cannot do the job. Barley, unlike hybrid corn, is a self-pollinated crop.
Growers save seed from year to year without having to purchase new seed.
This makes it very difficult to make a profit on barley. Therefore, major seed companies do not develop barley varieties. State land-grant universities and federal research facilities, with support from the malting and brewing industry and growers, conduct barley research and develop varieties. This public-private partnership has been very successful and needs to be continued. We are requesting the assistance and support of your office to help meet the following objectives.