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WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Randy Feenstra (IA-04) introduced a bill that would continue investment in cutting-edge agriculture research programs at land-grant universities. The Genome to Phenome Reauthorization Act would promote agricultural research at Iowa State University and other land-grant universities to increase crop yields while also lowing costs for Iowa’s farmers and producers.
“Improving our understanding of crop and livestock genetics will improve resiliency and productivity for Iowa’s farmers, ranchers, and producers,” said Rep. Zach Nunn. “By reauthorizing this program, we will ensure Iowa State University and other land-grant universities can continue critical agricultural research that improves the way we grow and raise America’s food supply.”
Specifically, this legislation reauthorizes the Genome to Phenome Initiative, which was established in the 2018 Farm Bill as a competitive grant program at $40 million to fund genomic research that strengthens crop and livestock productivity while reducing input costs for farmers. Investing in this research will ensure producers can reach their full potential.
“Last year, I invited House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson to Iowa to meet with our farmers, producers, and agricultural community. In addition to attending the Farm Progress Show in Boone to see the newest advancements in farm technology, we had the opportunity to learn more about research taking place at Iowa State University through the Genome to Phenome Initiative. In part, this initiative studies plant genetics – particularly corn – to determine how to increase yields and make crops more resilient,” said Rep. Randy Feenstra. “Investments in agricultural research are critical to our farm economy and the long-term strength of Iowa agriculture. It’s why I introduced legislation to reauthorize the Genome to Phenome Initiative and ensure that this program receives funding to continue this cutting-edge research. Representing the second largest agricultural-producing congressional district in the nation, increasing yields, lowering input costs, and supporting our farmers are important priorities for agriculture and our rural communities.”
This research initiative originated at Iowa State University to help producers maximize yields, adapt to changing weather conditions, and maintain our country’s competitive edge in food production. With global competitors like China doubling funding for research, this legislation keeps Iowa—and America—ahead of the curve.
“The Genome to Phenome Initiative is an invaluable research project that helps ensure that farmers have the resources they need to manage harsh weather conditions while producing higher yields with less inputs,” said NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. “We are appreciative of Rep. Feenstra for sponsoring legislation that supports this work.”
“In Iowa, we continue to grow more with less and this progress is largely due to our ongoing efforts to enhance corn’s resilience against various environmental challenges through Genomes to Phenomes research,” said Stu Swanson, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President and farmer from Galt, Iowa. “Genomes to Phenomes funding plays an important role as we continue advancing corn research and production, ensuring it meets the needs of both farmers and consumers in an ever-changing world.”
Text of the bill can be found here.
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