After a great event yesterday morning on the Obama Administration’s efforts to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil, Secretary Vilsack headed to RFD-TV for a live show titled, “Homegrown Energy, Fueling America’s Future.” With an in-studio audience of about 275 people and others watching live, the Secretary kicked it off by talking with RFD-TV host Mark Oppold about how we need America to be a country that makes, creates and innovates. He talked about USDA programs and rural America’s ability to meet our country's energy needs through renewable energy.
Specifically, the Secretary highlighted USDA’s recently announced REAP rule changes that provide fuel station owners with incentives to install flexible fuel pumps that will offer Americans more renewable energy options.
But, the majority of the show was just the Secretary taking questions from the audience and the phone on a range of topics, from cellulosic ethanol, to CAFOs to USDA disaster assistance.
The Tennessee Future Farmers of America (FFA) President asked a pointed question about what young people can do to support domestically produced fuels. The Secretary took that opportunity to speak directly to the 4-H, FFA and Whites Creek High School students in the audience to encourage them to pursue jobs in the farming business and to study the ag sciences.
Secretary Vilsack wrapped up by telling people to remember to thank a farmer or rancher for all that they do for us. They represent only 1% of our U.S. population, but supply 85% of what we consume.