Hearing of the Senate Indian Affairs Committe - Opening Statement by Sen. Hoeven, Hearing on Breaking New Ground in Agribusiness Opportunity in Indian Country

Hearing

"Good afternoon. I call this hearing to order.

"Today the committee will hold an oversight hearing on "Breaking New Ground in Agribusiness Opportunities in Indian Country.'

"Agribusiness is of particular importance in Indian Country. The National Congress of American Indians has noted that approximately 35 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives live in rural communities, and nearly 40 percent of tribal jobs are dependent on agriculture.

"According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, there are nearly 59,000 Indian farmers and ranchers in the United States with 35,000 farms principally operated by Indian farmers. In my home state of North Dakota, over 83 percent of farms on the Turtle Mountain Reservation are tribally operated.

"Agribusiness is critical for Indian Country, and it's a growing industry. According to the most recent USDA Census of Agriculture, between 2007 and 2012 there was a 9 percent increase in American Indian principal farm operators. This increase occurred in Indian Country while we saw a national decrease in principal farmers.

"This committee has worked to reduce the regulatory burden in Indian Country, and it is time we do the same for the growing industry of Indian agribusiness. We are here today to discuss just that, and to examine how tribes and their members can capitalize on opportunities in agribusiness.

"We have a diverse group of witnesses who are joining us today to review how Congress, the administration, tribes, and other stakeholders may work together to find common ground and help Native Americans continue to have success in agribusiness.

"I want to thank our witnesses for being with us today. As a North Dakotan, and a member of the Agriculture Committee, I am particularly interested in Indian agribusiness. I look forward to hearing your testimonies."

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