Agriculture groups will commemorate Earth Day with programs nationwide that culminate in a national celebration April 22-23 on the Mall in Washington.  More than 50 organizations and agencies are participating.

According to the "Ag-Earth Partnership," the events highlight "innovative environmental practices and a public rededication to conserving the protecting the approximately 1 billion acres of land used...to produce food, natural fiber and many other products" in the United States.

Events will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days.  Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman will participate in a media tour of about 40 exhibits and activities that showcase programs and technology used by agriculture for conservation and environmental protection.

Confirmed speakers include USDA Deputy Agriculture Secretary Richard Rominger, Senate Agricultural Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Thad Cochran (R-MS); Rep. Charles Stenholm (D-TX), ranking Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service chief Pearlie Reed.  National Council of Farmer Cooperatives Senior Vice President Randall T. Jones is the moderator.