Contact: 202-554-1600

WASHINGTON (June 2, 2011) – National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson sent a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton today, urging the State Department to extend the public comment period for the Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS) regarding the proposed Keystone XL pipeline.

“NFU members continue to have serious concern regarding the proposed Keystone XL pipeline as evaluated in the SDEIS,” said Johnson. “An extension of the comment period is necessary to provide greater opportunity for input from farmers and ranchers, many of whom are currently busy with spring planting. Opportunity should also be provided for public hearings along the proposed route to allow for input from impacted communities.”

NFU policy opposes any infrastructure or resource development that jeopardizes the health, safety and quality of the Ogallala and other freshwater aquifer resources.

National Farmers Union has been working since 1902 to protect and enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities through advocating grassroots-driven policy positions adopted by its membership.

-30-