Selection of Peter L. Scher as Special Trade Ambassador for Agriculture

                                              Release No. 0116.97

     Statement
                               by
               Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman
on Selection of Peter L. Scher as Special Trade Ambassador for Agriculture
         in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
                         April 15, 1997


     "America's farmers and ranchers today are more dependent that ever on
the global marketplace for their income.  In fact, U.S. agricultural exports
hit a record of nearly $60 billion last year.  That increased dependence on
world markets means our fight to tear down unfair trade restrictions wherever
they appear is of even greater importance.

     "That is why the selection of Peter Scher as the special trade
ambassador for agriculture is so critical.  I know Peter well, and I know his
work.  He will be a very valuable leader in the Administration's efforts to
promote agricultural trade around the world and fight unfair trade
restrictions.

     "I also want to commend U.S. Trade Representative Charlene Barshefsky
for creating this new position.  This Administration has made great strides in
expanding agriculture trade opportunities by prying open new markets and
expanding old ones.  I look forward to working with Peter to build on our past
successes by creating new opportunities for America's farmers and ranchers."


                                #

NOTE: USDA news releases and media advisories are available on the Internet.
Access the USDA Home Page on the World Wide Web at http://www.usda.gov