Rep. Hastings speaks to local businesses

MOSES LAKE - Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Wash., visited both Othello and Moses Lake on Monday.

"The congressman came to us and gave an update on what's happening in Washington, D.C., primarily on how legislation affects potatoes," Washington Potato Commission Executive Director Chris Voigt said.

Among those updates was the proposed Farm Bill update of 2012.

"One of the things that Doc feels is really important for his district is the inclusion of specialty crops," Voigt said. "None of these crops get subsidies."

A speciality crop is defined as crops that are primarily raised in low acreage, and usually produce items: apples, cherries or onions.

"We have such a diverse agricultural area here," Hastings said. "I'm cautiously optimistic that we'll have a Farm Bill by the end of the year.

Hastings spent nearly 45 minutes speaking to the commission, after taking some time visiting AV Labs, Inc. in Othello to discuss agricultural testing.

"The testing part of it is an aspect that's getting bigger and bigger," he said. "The firm down there is very interesting."

Representatives from AV Labs, Inc. could not be reached for comment.

Hastings also spoke to the potato commission about proposed trade agreements with Mexico.

"Specifically, there are positive negotiations going on with the Mexican government as to the 17-mile barrier that has been in place for some time," he said.

Voigt explained that, under an agreement between the two governments 10 years ago, fresh potatoes should be able to be exported to our southern neighbors throughout their nation.

However, the trade zone still remains at 17 miles south of the border.

"Imagine if we could go farther into the country," Voigt said. "It would be very significant to us."

"Mexico is a big trading partner, and that barrier was simply a barrier that didn't allow us sell our products as much as we could," Hastings said. "The potato commission has been working with the Mexican government, and they're optimistic that more markets will open up down there for potatoes."