POTSDAM – Congressman Bill Owens and the League of Women Voters will provide an opportunity for agriculture groups, farmers and the public to provide input on the next federal farm bill at a special forum Feb. 25.

Congress is due to take up the next farm bill later this year.

“As the House Agriculture Committee continues the process of crafting the next Farm Bill, I believe it is important to hear firsthand from constituents representing local agriculture interests,” said Owens.

The Farm Bill Listening Forum convenes at 11 a.m. and runs until noon Saturday, Feb. 25 in Clarkson University’s Barben Rooms at the Cheel Campus Center.

“The federal Farm Bill, which is due for renewal this year, matters greatly to our region,” said St. Lawrence County League of Women Voters Chair Sue Cypert. “Government action will affect not only the prosperity of our farmers but the many people who are affected in business or personal ways by agricultural work in our region. Many residents have questions about the quality and safety of our food. This forum will allow North Country voices to be heard, and we thank Congressman Owens for taking part.”