[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 16 (Tuesday, January 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E129]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN FARM BUREAU 
                               FEDERATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JERRY McNERNEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 28, 2014

  Mr. McNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in 
recognizing and celebrating the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation for 
its efforts on AgVenture, an innovative program that teaches students 
about agriculture and our nation's food supply.
  California's San Joaquin Valley is one of the most bountiful 
agricultural regions in the world. From cucumbers to walnuts, from 
tomatoes to cherries, the Valley is vital to the United States' food 
security. In 2012, San Joaquin County alone produced $2.8 billion in 
agricultural revenue, an extraordinary 28 percent increase from the 
previous year, and is responsible for countless jobs in the region.
  To help raise awareness about local agriculture, the San Joaquin Farm 
Bureau Federation started AgVenture, which educates 11,000 elementary 
school students per year in San Joaquin County farming techniques, the 
history of certain crops, and the food they eat.
  AgVenture helps rebuild a sense of community between those who live 
in urban and suburban cities and people in rural areas. AgVenture and 
other efforts by the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation promote healthy 
diets, ensure affordable food, and honor the rich agricultural history 
of the United States. I am proud to represent San Joaquin County 
farmers in Congress.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in commending the San Joaquin Farm 
Bureau Federation, its AgVenture program, and its dedication to 
improving the education and nutrition of California's youth.

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