Farm Bill: The Good

The $1.7 billion in the House version of the farm bill represents a first-ever boost to the nation's smaller, niche farms from the big Congressional subsidy.

Specialty crops like fruits and vegetables, organic produce and greenhouse staples like flowers and sod will get a boost, taking a slice from the massive subsidies typically given to row crops like corn, soybeans and cotton.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who negotiated the deal, and called it a great first step toward reform of the nation's farm policy, which is roundly criticized for supporting big rich farmers, and even contributing to poor nutrition and pollution around the country.

Also see Farm Bill: The Bad, and The Ugly.

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