1.   Some arid regions in the southwestern United States have limited farmers access to water.

2.   Sparks said solutions may include giving farmers access to lending programs or returning land that was foreclosed on.

3.   Lower level officials in recent months have heralded experiments around the country giving farmers access to credit and development funds if they have one child.

4.   Prime Minister John Howard said Thursday he was considering amending his proposed package of tighter gun laws to allow farmers access to high-powered, semi-automatic weapons.

5.   Several dozen farmers blocked access to the government agriculture and forestry office here Saturday, demanding that the government take action to stimulate agricultural production.