FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 2, 2007

CONTACT: Becky Grisham, Missouri Corn Growers Association, (573) 893-4181 or (800) 827-4181

CORN GROWERS URGE OVERRIDE
ON RIVER TRANSPORTATION LEGISLATION

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) -- Today President George W. Bush vetoed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), much to the disappointment of corn growers. This important river transportation bill would authorize seven 1,200 foot locks on the Upper Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Corn farmers depend on the rivers for market access and are encouraging members of Congress to swiftly override the president's decision.

"Missouri corn growers need to have the infrastructure in place to compete in today's global marketplace," says Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) CEO Gary Marshall. "Previous voting records show that Missouri's Congressional delegates understand the importance of this legislation. We urge our friends in Congress to continue supporting Missouri farmers and immediately move forward with a veto override."

WRDA has received strong support from both the House and Senate. On Aug. 1, the House passed the conference report by a resounding 381-40. The Senate overwhelming passed the report by a vote of 81-12. The House is expected to move the veto early next week. Action in the Senate is expected on Wednesday. A two-thirds vote in each chamber is required to override the veto.

"We've been working towards this goal for nearly a decade," Marshall says. "We can't give up at the two yard line. WRDA is in the homestretch. Now is the time to push this forward and make a difference in Missouri."

MCGA has been a longstanding advocate for improved river infrastructure. To learn more, visit www.mocorn.org or call the Missouri Corn office at 1-800-827-4181.