Washington, D.C. – Mississippi farmers will benefit from the new Farm Bill adopted today by the United States Senate, according to Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS).

"This bill provides stability and predictability for U.S. farmers," said Cochran, who served as a member of the House and Senate conference committee which wrote the bill.

The six year bill provides annual crop support payments to farmers through a marketing loan program and target price mechanism.

Cochran said, "This legislation will end the uncertainty about farm programs."

Conservation of soil and water resources, including wetlands, will be enhanced by the Conservation Reserve Program and the Wetland Reserve Program. Landowners will now be able to bid for permanent or 30-year easements, according to Senator Cochran.

"I am especially pleased that the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program is also reauthorized in this legislation," Cochran added.

The President has announced his intention to sign the bill once it reaches his desk.