[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 176 (Tuesday, December 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2504]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE SWIFT FAMILY

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to a 
remarkable family from my District. Dean and Pattie Swift of Jaroso, 
Colorado have done a great deal for the preservation of the 
environment. Recently, the Colorado Association of Conservation 
Districts named the Swifts as Conservation Farmers of the Year for the 
work they have done as owners of the Swift Seed Company. I am honored 
to call the attention of this body of Congress to the contributions the 
Swifts have made to preserving the environment.
  The Swifts began farming in the San Luis Valley in 1975. Their 
company sells flower seeds worldwide. The seeds the Swifts sell are 
used primarily for the reclamation of mining sites and the re-seeding 
of areas devastated by wildfire.
  Dean Swift serves as the Chairman of the Rio Grande Corridor Advisory 
Committee. This committee is comprised of farmers and ranchers 
throughout Costilla County who are dedicated to the preservation of the 
Rio Grande on the Western border of Costilla County. In addition, Dean 
works in conjunction with Ducks Unlimited to promote wetland habitat on 
the Swift Farm.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Dean and 
Pattie Swift. The Swifts have done a great deal for the environment, 
not only on their family farm but also throughout our state. They have 
managed these feats while happily serving as wonderful parents to their 
two beautiful children. Congratulations Dean and Pattie on a well-
deserved award.

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