During a visit to Sioux City, Iowa on Tuesday, Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns released the latest farm bill forum theme paper – this one on USDA’s role in renewable energy and energy efficiency programs.

“During the Farm Bill Forums, we heard real enthusiasm from producers about the potential for agriculture to unleash new sources of energy and income,” said Johanns. “We have seen ethanol production more than double in four years. USDA is committed to encouraging the entrepreneurial innovation of America’s farmers and ranchers to help build a new energy economy.”

The renewable energy analysis paper released today, as well as previously released analysis papers, are available at www.usda.gov/farmbill.