WASHINGTON, D.C. – Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg today announced $8.387 million in funding for projects throughout the state, including $2.582 million for the Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas program.  The funding was included in the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee bill for Fiscal Year 2010.

          “Now more than ever, Montana’s farmers and ranchers need the best information and technology to increase production and improve the quality of their product,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “The Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas Program not only provides tools for sustainable agriculture but it also supplies technical assistance for farmers and ranchers to conserve energy. Our ag industry must use the best management techniques available to remain competitive.”

          The National Committee for Appropriate Technology is a national nonprofit organization located in Butte. It has more than 30 years of experience in helping people learn more about technologies and practices that save energy and resources in the home, farm workplace and community.

          Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas (ATTRA) provides information, educational resources and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers across the U.S., with a special focus on sustainable ag technologies, farm energy, and information on marketing and adding value to farm products.  In Montana last year, ranchers and farmers from 72 communities submitted 3,091 individual requests for technical assistance and downloaded 44,896 publications off the ATTRA website. Funding for this project will be spent on salaries for staff who provide in-person educational presentations at state, regional and national meetings as well as other related costs.

          “The National Committee for Appropriate Technology was delighted to learn that the House Agriculture Appropriations Committee has provided funding for our Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas Project (ATTRA),” said Kathleen Hadley, the organization’s Executive Director.  “The staff and board of NCAT are grateful to Congressman Rehberg, who worked hard to help obtain funding for our national program.”