05/19/05 Limbaugh support; USDA buys spuds

Former Fruitland farmer Mark Limbaugh has been tabbed by the White House to be the next water and science czar at the Department of Interior. The 49 year old Limbaugh is currently the deputy director of the Bureau of Reclamation and he knows the Western water issues, so says Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Larry Craig. CRAPO "I think Mark would be an outstanding guy for the job." CRAIG "To have people of his quality at the top of the water issues here in Washington is a tremendous plus for Idaho and for the country." Both Senators expect that Limbaugh will be confirmed for the job. They're also praising USDA's decision to buy up to 80 million pounds of frozen or dehydrated potatoes. Crapo says the buyout helps lower potato stocks, stabilize potato prices and expand healthy food programs into our schools. CRAPO "Our government has it provides food and nutrition programs in our schools and other places to focus on fruits and vegetables and Idaho's potatoes certainly quality as one of the top choices there and we're really pleased with the secretary's decision." The latest potato purchase is on top of 100 million pounds already bought this year. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott