Debbie Stabenow, Chairwoman of the US Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee recently wrote a great piece about the importance of the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) for both renewable energy generation and job creation.  The federal Farm Bill is updated every five years, and is currently being updated.  Stabenow’s priority is to ensure the latest version of the bill includes initiatives to reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, and support energy independence, particularly in her home state of Michigan.  Through REAP, small business owners are creating energy through anaerobic digesters, solar panels, and wind turbines.  As the Chairwoman stated, “each of these new opportunities also creates jobs for workers who design, build, market, and install these new products, creating a win-win for Michigan’s economy.”  We hope to see REAP continue to thrive and receive funding in the federal budget as important decisions are made over the next few months.  To read the original article from the Huron Daily Tribune click here.