COLLINS WRITES TO USDA FOR AID FOR POTATO FARMERS

Washington, D.C. -- Senator Susan Collins joined a bipartisan, bicameral group in sending a letter today to the Secretary of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), asking that the Department conduct a so-called "bonus buy" of farmers' excess potato supply in Maine and across the country. The potatoes would be used for the School Lunch and other federal nutrition programs.

"USDA purchases of potatoes and potato products for the School Lunch and other federal nutrition programs have been effective in easing over supply, stabilizing prices, and making more potatoes available to the consumers who utilize these programs," wrote Senator Collins.

American potato growers are now facing a negative trade balance for potatoes and potato products for the first time in US history. As a result of declining demand in the US and expanding potato production in Canada, American potato growers are experiencing serious difficulty marketing their 2003 crop. The continued strong dollar has also limited US export growth, while potato imports have increased by 39 percent in volume and 26 percent in value between 2001 and 2002.

The letter was also signed by Senator Olympia Snowe and Representative Michael Michaud.