On Friday, December 14, the Senate voted 79-14 to pass a new Farm Bill.

After weeks of debate, the only substantial changes made by the Senate
to the committee bill were those included in the manager's amendment
offered by Senator Harkin, who chairs the committee. The package of
changes was approved by both the Democratic and Republican leaders in
advance, and includes some significant provisions.

Thanks to all of you who sent letters, emails, calls and faxes to your
Senators! You helped make a difference! All amendments that would have
weakened conservation provisions were either voted down or withdrawn,
and several of the provisions we sought were eventually included in the
manager's amendment.

The next step is for Senate and House negotiators to meet to work out
differences between the Senate bill and the version passed by the House
in July.

We have a summary that shows the outcome of the key amendments that NWF
has focused on, which is posted at the Farming for Wildlife USA web
site: http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/FarmingforWildlife_USA/
(look for NWF Positions Senate Floor Amends RESULTS)

Duane Hovorka
National Wildlife Federation