[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 58 (Thursday, April 25, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H2311]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       SUPPORTING SPECIALTY CROPS

  (Ms. DelBENE asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bipartisan 
resolution in support of specialty crops, with support from Members of 
Congress across the country. Specialty crops, such as fruits and 
vegetables, are a significant part of agriculture, with annual 
production valued at over $50 billion. This is about half of the value 
of all U.S. crops, but specialty crops aren't given the same attention 
or financial support as our traditional commodities.
  Specialty crops are a major source of economic activity, jobs, and 
our Nation's food supply. Every State has at least some specialty crop 
production, and my district is no different. In Whatcom and Skagit 
counties, hundreds of specialty crops are grown, totaling millions in 
sales each year. Specialty crops grown on farms in Snohomish and King 
counties provide fresh, quality foods to our schools, restaurants, and 
farmers markets.
  As Congress begins to consider another farm bill, it is important to 
acknowledge how vital specialty crops are to our country. I urge my 
colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution, and I look forward 
to continuing to work together to ensure that programs in support of 
specialty crops are highlighted and fully funded.

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