Framing The Issues

People in the heartland of California are talking.

They're talking about our changing world and what it means to our California economy and quality of life. It seems no matter what direction the world takes those who rely on agriculture for a living will be affected, and will have to act in response. War and unrest create shortages of food and the need for massive food aid projects. Famine and drought also create the need for food relief.

Overpopulation places enormous stress on resources, and poverty makes it impossible for many people around the world to purchase the food they need. These global problems and challenges affect all of us, and particularly those who live in and around farming areas. Yes, these problems affect life in California.

That's why the people in the heartland of California are talking about America's role in the world and what's at stake for California agriculture.

Farmers and food processors are concerned about prices and markets for their products. Consumers are concerned with food quality and safety. Community leaders see less farming jobs and more houses being built on good farmland. People in general see news reports about thousands of hungry people around the world and even in our own neighborhoods. People are talking about America and the world, because our world is changing. We know these changes have the potential to touch our daily lives, yet we are uncertain how, and to what degree.

People are talking about the changing leadership role of America in the world. Everyone of course is talking about terrorism and the Iraq War. We as Americans have some difficult choices to make, and we want to make the best possible choices for ourselves, our children and other people around the world. As America and Americans decide what role we want in the world, people in the heartland of California want to know what their options are and what changes they'll be required to face.

Most Americans see themselves as hardworking and generous, ready and willing to solve complex problems. Today we know the world is a dangerous and troubled place, but we're also sure the world needs caring and clear leadership from America. Like it or not, the United States has the most influence of any country in the world. This means that we have the greatest opportunity and, some say, the greatest responsibility to take positive steps to make life better in our own country and around the world.

Dramatic changes have already been seen during the past several years concerning the world's food supply. Many of these changes affect American and California agriculture, and more changes are likely. As you consider this issue, don't just complain about what used to be or even what has happened in recent years. Talk about what you want to happen in the future and why. Discuss what actions you want our government, our institutions and our people to take, and how the lives of Californians will be affected by these actions. Your voice, your thoughts and your opinions are needed in the unfolding national discussion about our future, and the role our nation will play in the world for years to come.

This issue book identifies three 'approaches' to America's role in the future of the world's food supply. Each 'approach' offers a different view of the problem. Each 'approach' then provides its own view of the best solutions. Each 'approach' has a loyal group of supporters, and each has a group of opponents. Some ideas can be easily mixed between 'approaches', but not all ideas can be mixed. Each 'approach' has its own priorities, goals and agenda.

As you read through them, note your own reactions to the ideas and actions presented. Note how they fit with your values and opinions. Note the trade-offs and complexities. Note the questions and concerns that come to mind. There is no 'right' or 'wrong' approach, only an opportunity to discuss and weigh these crucial issues with other concerned citizens in your community.