Current farm policy has come under criticism for not responding sufficiently to low commodity prices. However, many of its features -- like planting flexibility -- remain relatively popular. Few Washington insiders expect a rewrite of farm laws this year, though they do anticipate more emergency aid along the lines of 1998 and 1999. Still, the dynamics of field hearings can change legislators' perceptions of what their constituents want, and the coming field hearings will be closely scrutinized.

The next hearing is in Memphis, and the series continues through mid-May. In practical terms, this year's shortened Congressional schedule would make a full-blown farm bill rewrite difficult after that date, especially since the House committee's Senate counterpart has no plans for similar hearings.