“As an enrolled member of the Blackfeet Indian Nation and resident of rural-frontier America, my vision for the future includes a continuing commitment to the enduring principles that vastly expand economic opportunity and social justice,” Rep. Augare said.

He noted that his community has an employment rate of 79%. He stressed the importance of creating meaningful jobs, incentives for companies to invest in rural America, new energy policies, improved health care and transportation.

“When a rural resident has to drive two to three hours for basic health-care services, a community is not sustainable,” he said.

Bill Greener, Founding Partner of Greener & Hook.

“When it comes to public policy and public attention, it is my contention the real forgotten American is the individual living in rural America,” Greener said.

He noted that the national media does a poor job of covering rural issues, mostly focusing on stereotypical impressions of the countryside as poor yet happy.

Greener insisted that rural America needs public policies that stimulate local economies and should include a comprehensive agenda that extends the discussion well beyond the farm bill.

Peter Carey, President of Self-Help Enterprises

Carey, who spoke on behalf of the Stand Up for Rural America Network, said community development organizations have spearheaded responsive, localized development initiatives in rural areas. He said such organizations represent an effective infrastructure to meet needs and create opportunities. Investing more in building their capacities is the most effective and efficient way to allocate limited dollars, he said. Carey said there is no one “rural America, therefore, no one-size fits-all rural development strategy will work.”

Greg Dent, CEO, Community Health Works

Dent said health care plays a vital role in rural economies. Quality health care in rural America not only provides for the health of the community. He said such care creates jobs, infuses capital in the economy, attracts businesses, and encourages families and seniors not to leave rural areas. “The Farm Bill must establish policies that help rural health care to flourish -- for both the sake of the health of rural Americans and for the economy of rural America,” he said.

Mark Lloyd, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress

Lloyd said broadband internet access for rural America was inadequate. “Connecting all American to the most advanced communications service is important for health care, education and it is fundamental for civic participation,” he said. “Rural Americans do not represent only a need, they represent an opportunity to teach the world.”