WASHINGTON, D.C. – Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg met with representatives from the National Barley Growers Association (NBGA) to discuss the role the federal government can play in expanding market opportunities for Montana’s barley producers. The conversation included free trade agreements, export opportunities in Cuba and using U.S.-grown products for international food aid.

“There’s literally a world of opportunities out there for Montana agriculture producers,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “It’s great to work with our producers to figure out the best way the federal government can assist with market expansion that will yield economic growth across Montana.”

Among the subjects discussed, Rehberg pointed out his ongoing frustration that U.S. tax dollars are being used to buy foreign-grown food products for international food aid. “Taxing Montana farmers to buy foreign grain is just bad economic policy,” said Rehberg. “The last thing we should be doing right now is pumping tax dollars into the competition.”

“It’s always a treat to talk with Denny,” said Dave Henderson, Vice-President of the National Barley Growers Association. “When you ask him a question, he has an answer and is already a few steps ahead. We are very interested in continued support for trade, including the sale of Montana Barley in Cuba and the passage of the Columbia Free Trade Agreement.”