In the last issue of Render, I told you about an event that was about to take place – the first ever Congressional Fly-In for members of the National Renderers Association (NRA). Now, I would like to report to you the outcome of the event.
Thirty renderers representing 15 companies came to Washington, DC, to participate in the fly-in. They visited over 100 congressional offices. During their visits they informed members of Congress and their staffs of the importance of the rendering industry. They outlined the steps that renderers are taking to comply with the Food and Drug Administration’s feed rule and to keep bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) out of the United States. In addition, they let members of Congress and their staffs know that the rendering industry can make a significant contribution to the current energy situation, calling for the utilization of alternative fuels.
To most of the people the renderers met with, this was their first exposure to the rendering industry. They were unaware of the magnitude of how much material was rendered every year – over 50 billion pounds. Many were quick to recognize the contribution renderers provide to the environment and public health.
Renderers were well received on the Hill. They left behind background material on NRA, the rendering industry, as well as position papers on BSE and biodiesel.
Success of the event can best be measured by both the enthusiastic response of the participating NRA members and the positive feedback we’ve been receiving from people on the Hill and the agencies that have been contacted by various congressional offices.
This was the first fly-in; I’m sure it will not be the last. We’ve still got a lot of work to do in getting our message to the policy makers in Washington. But we made a darn good start.
During the visits, renderers discussed BSE and our contribution to seeking alternative energy. We were well received. They appreciated our position and the activities we are taking to do our part to keep BSE out of the United States.
However, when we talked about alternative fuels, we really got their attention. We told them about the work the Fats and Proteins Research Foundation is doing in this area. We let them know of our desire to have rendered fats and oils included in the definition of biodiesel. They were impressed when told of the volume of rendered fats and oils produced every year. This 11.2 billion pounds represents a significant potential contribution to the development of alternative fuels.
In addition, we informed them of the amount of rendered fats and oils already being used as burner fuel in rendering plants today. We are working with the Environmental Protection Agency to find ways to cut through the red tape to grant permits to do more burning of fats and oils.
There appears to be a strong likelihood that there will be an “energy” title as part of the next farm bill passed by Congress. If so, there will be several provisions involving alternative fuels that will be of interest to renderers.
We must be proactive to make sure our interests are addressed. The recent member contacts to their representatives and senators will be invaluable as we proceed.
The week following the fly-in, renderers from Canada went to Ottawa and met with the Honorable Lyle Vanclief, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. They had a very good meeting where they conveyed much of the same messages that were spread in Washington.
Convention Fast Approaching
Now is the time to make plans to attend the 68th Annual Convention of the National Renderers Association, October 16-20, 2001, in Naples, FL. A program is being prepared to address the many issues facing the rendering industry.
Conventions serve many purposes. These programs are designed to inform, educate, and entertain, while topics of specific interest to renderers are identified. Speakers are invited to come and address these topics. Hopefully, you, as the attendee, will learn something you can take home and put to good use in your operation.
The annual convention is where you get that once-a-year opportunity to mix and mingle with other renderers from around the world. Your visits with fellow renderers can often be beneficial to your own situation.
The educational, policy considerations, and social aspects of a convention make it a must attend event. Make your travel, reservation, and registration plans now.
Past President in Accident
We have received word that John Hendricks, senior vice president/chief operations officer of Rendering at Moyer Packing and NRA president 1990-1991, was involved in a recreational vehicle accident on July 8, 2001. At press time, Hendricks had undergone surgery for his injuries and was listed in critical condition.
Our thoughts go out to John and his family for a speedy recovery.
From the Association - August 2001 Render