U.S. Representatives Jim Costa and Jeff Denham called for policies that protect and support Central Valley agriculture and jobs during the opening meeting of the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Committee yesterday.

Costa and Denham brought San Joaquin Valley concerns front and center, focusing on trade, specialty crops, farming sustainability and nutrition programs.

“California is the nation’s leading producer of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are staples of nutrient-dense and healthy meals. The equitable treatment of specialty crops in the Farm Bill is very important to our nation,” Rep. Costa told the Committee. “I support fully funding the Specialty Crop Research Initiative and to provide separate funding to combat citrus greening.” Costa then noted the importance of funding for organic research and organic certification cost-sharing.

“My Central Valley district is one of the top producing agricultural areas in the nation, and as a local farmer, I know how vital it is for my constituents and our nation that we protect our farmers and our farmland,” said Denham during yesterday’s meeting. “California farmers must be treated fairly and promoted in the 2018 Farm Bill, and I look forward to working with all of you as we conclude our deliberations.”

Western Growers thanks U.S. Representatives Costa and Denham for standing up for fruits, vegetables and tree nuts yesterday and appreciates the congressmen for pushing on our collective behalf.