Des Moines Sun

Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a lifelong family farmer, questioned Glen Smith of Atlantic, Iowa, during his nomination hearing for Under Secretary for Rural Development at the Department of Agriculture (USDA). Grassley focused on topics such as supporting ethanol and biofuels, improving loan programs at USDA, and strengthening economic development in rural communities.

Grassley noted Smith's background in rural America. "I’m glad your roots are deep in rural America because you’ve been in this town long enough to know that this city is an island surrounded by reality. And, I’m glad to have some of your common sense, been here for a few years," Grassley said.

Addressing the need for better loan functions at USDA, Grassley stated: "You have spoken a little bit about your work on the farm credit system. I know you know the importance of federal loan programs, and I think of rural hospitals as an example in this area. But I’m not asking you just about rural hospitals."

He continued by asking Smith how he would use his experience from the Farm Credit Administration to improve USDA loan functions.

Grassley also highlighted Iowa’s leadership in ethanol production. "So, you have an ethanol plant in your backyard. I do as well. Iowa is home to [more than] 40 of these plants. We’re a national leader in biofuels," he said.

He asked Smith: "Ethanol demand increases corn demand, supporting farmers. Do you agree that supporting ethanol — now, I know you can’t make decisions in this area. It’s mostly in the [jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency]. But you can sure be an advocate."

"Do you agree that supporting ethanol and other biofuels in turn supports rural communities and that we should expand domestic production, use and export markets for ethanol?" Grassley added.

On advocating for biofuels, Grassley encouraged proactive efforts: "...[S]peaking up for rural development is very important ... don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Seek them out."

He remarked on general knowledge gaps regarding biofuels: "This town is kind of ignorant about biofuels and ethanol. Maybe people in this room aren’t, because this is an Agricultural Committee room. But, just remember that, when you hear people pronounce ethanol 'ee-thanol,' you’re talking to somebody that doesn’t know much about the program."

Grassley addressed support for critical programs like the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program (REDLG), which provides financing options often unavailable elsewhere: "The Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program (REDLG) ... is a critical tool for Iowa’s Rural Electric Cooperatives. These loans and grants drive economic growth in rural communities that would otherwise not have access to financing for improvements and new projects."

He concluded by asking Smith if he would work with his office and appropriators to ensure support through REDLG as well as related initiatives such as the Rural Energy For America Program.