[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 40 (Thursday, March 18, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E413]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING DAVID THOMPSON

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. C.A. DUTCH RUPPERSBERGER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 18, 2010

  Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor 
Mr. David Thompson, recipient of the Harford County Land 
Preservationist of the Year award. Thompson is one of Harford County's 
strongest advocates for the preservation of farmland.
  Thompson's interest in horticulture began with his family's vegetable 
and flower garden. In 1978, he and his wife, Marilyn, founded a local 
nursery, which has since grown into one of the region's most respected 
nursery and landscaping enterprises.
  Thompson's leadership in the horticulture community is unprecedented. 
He is a past president of the Maryland Nursery and Landscape 
Association, the American Conifer Society, and the Mid-Atlantic Nursery 
Trade Show. Thompson recently stepped down from the Harford County 
Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board, after many years of 
faithful service, including terms as Chairman. During his time on the 
Board, Thompson worked with the County Executive and the County Council 
to increase the property tax credit for preserved farmland. In 2009, 
Thompson was named a Master Farmer by the American Agriculturist 
magazine, becoming only the 48th Marylander to receive this honor.
  Thompson strives to promote the green industry and horticulture 
education in Maryland. He has been an active leader in the development 
of the Agriculture and Natural Resources program at North Harford High 
and is a member of the University of Maryland Horticulture Advisory 
Board.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mr. David 
Thompson, Harford County Land Preservationist of the Year. His 
exceptional advocacy and endeavor to educate others on behalf of the 
horticulture community is unparalleled.

                          ____________________