'I think people recognize the valid need for a farm program'

By MATTHEW WEAVER

Capital Press

COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho -- The new president of the Idaho Grain Producers Association expects to see a farm bill passed that's good for growers.

Clark Hamilton took over as president of the association during the Tri-State Grain Growers Convention in Coeur d'Alene. Hamilton farms about 6,000 acres near Ririe, Idaho. He was raised in Utah and has been in Idaho since 1996.

He replaces Joseph Anderson of Genessee, Idaho, as president.

Asked about top priorities, Hamilton hopes to see a new farm bill passed. He thinks there's a high likelihood one will be passed that is satisfactory for the industry.

"I think people recognize the valid need for a farm program, the importance of keeping farmers solvent and keep the industry healthy," he said. "A farm bill will help do that."

Other priorities include addressing Environmental Protection Agency regulations, private property rights and marketing.

"Being able to control regulation and not being overcome by it," he said is a priority.

In his new position, Hamilton hopes to see growers within the association take an active role and offer their voices.

"Give us input about what direction they would like to see us go," he said. "I'd like to see all farmers get more involved."

Online

www.idahograin.org