Addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. corn industry and agriculture requires coordinated effort among all its stakeholders. To help make that cooperation easier, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is launching the Agri-Industry Council (AIC).

The AIC will be open to organizations that supply or buy from corn producers, as well as those who use corn and corn co-products.

"The AIC will provide outstanding opportunities for agribusiness and NCGA farmer leadership to address issues of mutual interest and concern," explained NCGA President Ken McCauley. "Through the AIC, industry will interface with grower-leaders in addressing equitable farm policy development, expanded production of renewable fuels, increased acceptance of biotechnology traits, transportation improvements and a host of other issues."

AIC membership is open to all firms across all areas of agribusiness. It is governed by a six-member board of directors. The council meets as a group twice a year and stays in touch through a bi-monthly newsletter and other communications tools.

"We in U.S. agriculture have a big responsibility in keeping this country the world's leading provider of food and fiber," said McCauley. "The best way to do this is through a cohesive, unified approach to challenges and opportunities."

McCauley hopes the AIC will provide a network between corn grower and industry leaders.