Dear Readers,

Environmental Working Group just released the latest update to our Farm Subsidy Database and it's ruffling some feathers.

Why? Once again we've exposed the fact that our government is doling out subsidies to big farms that don't need the help and a lot of folks who don't live anywhere near a farm. (Don't believe us? Try entering 90210 in our database and you'll meet the "Farmers of Beverly Hills".)

Saying this is a waste is putting things mildly.

The farm bill, really it's a food bill, that Congress writes and passes every five years is a critical piece of legislation that determines whether we can put affordable, healthy organic food on our table. But as the millions of dollars in government payments to city slickers shows, the system is broken.

Just think: All this money could be used to encourage more organic farming, protect the land and the environment, and feed low-income families and children who depend on government nutrition programs with healthy, unprocessed food.

If you've ever wondered why organic food can be hard to find and usually pretty expensive -- I hope you'll check out some of the resources we've pulled together to help you better understand the farm bill, the subsidies and the impact they have on your life and food choices.

Click here to see our farm bill resources page.

TEDx Video: I gave a talk in Manhattan at the TEDx conference outlining the problems with the Farm Bill and what we can do to make it better. If you're not familiar with farm subsidies, this is a great primer to get you started.

Farm Subsidy Widget and Database: This handy tool is a great way to find out who the actual recipients of farm subsidies are. I guarantee the results will surprise you. Everyone from Scottie Pippen to U.S. Representative Michele Bachmann are getting a piece of the pie. Try using the widget to enter your own zip code and see who has received these subsidies.You can get even more information at our Farm Subsidy Database.

Make You Angry? Then stand up and take action! Tell Congress that you want your taxpayer dollars to go toward sustainable farming practices and growing healthier food for all Americans. We'll deliver your signatures to Debbie Stabenow, chair of the Senate Agricultural Committee.

The farm bill is a key part of our food system. All of us will benefit from the wise and fair distribution of our tax dollars, so please, make your voice heard today!

Sincerely,

Ken Cook
President, Environmental Working Group