26 February 2009

2 minute read

North America

"Representing America’s family farmers, ranchers and rural citizens has been a privilege and an honor,” Mr Buis said. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet farmers from all corners of the country and am continually impressed with their optimism, hard work and dedication to feeding, and now fueling, our nation."

Under Mr Buis’s leadership, NFU was a major player in the writing of the 2008 Farm Bill; was a leading advocate for the implementation of mandatory country of origin labeling (COOL); led the call to address excessive speculation in the commodity and energy futures markets; advocated for expanding the renewable fuels standard (RFS) and creating a renewable portfolio standard (RPS); and, through the Farmers Union Carbon Credit Program, allowed farmers to play a role in addressing climate change.

"It was not an easy decision, but I am excited to take on this new challenge and continue advocating for our nation’s family farmers and ranchers," Mr Buis said. "The production of renewable energy from our farms is the greatest economic opportunity for rural America that I’ve seen in my lifetime. Home-grown renewable fuels create jobs, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and protect our environment. I am looking forward to advancing this cause and addressing the myths and the facts when it comes to renewable fuels."

Mr Buis was elected NFU president in 2006 and again in 2008. He has been with the organization since March 1998, previously serving as vice president of the government relations. Before moving to Washington, D.C., he was a full-time grain and livestock farmer in Indiana with brothers Mike and Jeff, who continue to operate the family farm. Buis and his wife Peggy live in Gaithersburg, Md., and have two sons, Nicholas and Andrew.

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