Interviews
ASI President Burdell talks with Secretary Schafer
17 Apr '08
3 min read
With the lamb market bringing in over $400 million in annual sales as compared to $40 million in wool sales, it is easy to see the flaw in this analysis. ASI has stated before, and continues to maintain, that it has no confidence in the agency's analysis.
"I stressed to Schafer the importance of completing another economic impact analysis to correct the errors in the assumptions used when they proposed the rule," commented Johnson. "This rule needs to be re-opened after addressing these important concerns."
Johnson also reiterated the request by the industry for the approval of a section 32 lamb roast purchase program. Record high feed and fuel prices are having a dramatic impact on the feeder lamb market.
Authorization of up to $5 million in section 32 funds through the end of fiscal year 2009 would provide our industry with more confidence, which is needed for a good market.
It is critical that purchases are made before more product backs up in the system and goes into cold storage, further depressing the lamb market.
"I feel that the Argentina issue and the lamb roast purchase program are current issues at the forefront of keeping our industry healthy," stated Johnson. "I feel that Schafer listened to and understood the industry's concerns regarding these topics."
In conclusion, Johnson explained the negative impact the changes to the H-2A program will have on the sheep industry. The unique need for labor tocare for and protect livestock means that the special procedures provided to sheepherders are very important to the effective use of the H-2A program in our industry.
"I was very impressed with the knowledge and background the secretary displayed on the issues we discussed and with his ability to carry on a meaningful conversation on these topics," concluded Johnson.
"I stressed to Schafer the importance of completing another economic impact analysis to correct the errors in the assumptions used when they proposed the rule," commented Johnson. "This rule needs to be re-opened after addressing these important concerns."
Johnson also reiterated the request by the industry for the approval of a section 32 lamb roast purchase program. Record high feed and fuel prices are having a dramatic impact on the feeder lamb market.
Authorization of up to $5 million in section 32 funds through the end of fiscal year 2009 would provide our industry with more confidence, which is needed for a good market.
It is critical that purchases are made before more product backs up in the system and goes into cold storage, further depressing the lamb market.
"I feel that the Argentina issue and the lamb roast purchase program are current issues at the forefront of keeping our industry healthy," stated Johnson. "I feel that Schafer listened to and understood the industry's concerns regarding these topics."
In conclusion, Johnson explained the negative impact the changes to the H-2A program will have on the sheep industry. The unique need for labor tocare for and protect livestock means that the special procedures provided to sheepherders are very important to the effective use of the H-2A program in our industry.
"I was very impressed with the knowledge and background the secretary displayed on the issues we discussed and with his ability to carry on a meaningful conversation on these topics," concluded Johnson.
American Sheep Industry Association
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