To the editor:

I must express my disappointment with U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson's remarks ("Emerson begins tour at Cape Dairy farm," Aug. 10) regarding the future of the federal government's role in the dairy industry. The chaotic state of milk marketing today is largely due to a history of federal interference with the free market dating back to the New Deal. The last thing we need are additional trade barriers hindering the flow of milk within our own borders. The Northeast Dairy Compact in New England has failed to create an economic environment able to stem the tide of attrition that is inexorably forcing dairy farming within its region out of existence.

The key to profitability at the farm gate is containment of the costs of production, not in the price we obtain for our products. The foundation of federal agricultural policy is the provision of cheap food at the dinner plate. It is unrealistic to expect that to change. The American farmer is smart and tough. We can compete. We can succeed. If Emerson wants to help farmers, then cut taxes. Enable the states, counties and municipalities to cut their taxes through discontinuance of unfunded federal mandates. Adjust federal agricultural policy to benefit small-scale agriculture. Encourage direct marketing from the farm to the consumer to maintain a decentralized domestic food-production system. Restore constitutional balance by adherence to the 10th Amendment to the Constitution. Finally, let the free market rule.

MIKE SHREWSBERRY

Athens, Wis.