USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Thomas Dorr will hold a public meeting next month to work on implementing renewable energy programs authorized under the recently enacted farm bill.

“Continuing to develop renewable energy is a key component of President Bush’s strategy to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil,” Dorr said. “This meeting is an opportunity for business owners, citizens and agricultural producers to discuss the best ways to harness the untapped renewable energy resources in rural areas.”

USDA plans to implement the farm bill’s energy provisions in consultation with the Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency and other federal agencies.

The meeting will be held September 4 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (EDT) in the Jefferson Auditorium in the South Building, USDA. More information about the meeting and how to arrange to speak or make a presentation can be found on the Federal Register website.