[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 178 (Friday, November 9, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1506]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE 2018 AGRICULTURIST OF THE YEAR GARY SERRATO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 9, 2018

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today alongside my colleagues, David 
Valadao, to commemorate Mr. Gary Serrato as the Fresno Chamber of 
Commerce's 2018 Agriculturist of the Year. For over 30 years, Gary has 
devoted himself to the Fresno agricultural community by serving as an 
advocate and leader in his position as General Manager of the Fresno 
Irrigation District.
  A third-generation farmer, Gary gained appreciation for agricultural 
work at an early age. He worked on his father's ranch near Fowler, 
California and eventually received a Bachelor of Science in 
Agricultural Business from California State University, Fresno in 1978.
  Gary joined the Fresno Irrigation District in 1986, where he held the 
positions of Watermaster and Assistant Manager of Operations. As a 
result of Gary's hard work and significant contributions, he was 
appointed the General Manager of the Fresno Irrigation District in 
2000.
  As General Manager, Gary has skillfully navigated the district 
through some of the most trying times for California Agriculture. He is 
considered a leading advocate for Fresno County farmers and has 
effectively communicated numerous water issues to the public. Gary is a 
fervent believer in ensuring all Central Valley communities are 
provided with clean and accessible water.
  Gary has also demonstrated a strong commitment to community service 
throughout his career. Gary is involved with the Fresno County Water 
Advisory Committee, Kings River Water Association and Upper Kings River 
Water Forum. He served on the board of the Community Food Bank for two 
terms and was elected to two terms as council member in the City of 
Fowler. Gary was also appointed by Governor Jerry Brown to the 
California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley and was appointed as 
the executive officer of North Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the U.S. House of 
Representatives join me, Mr. Valadao, and Mr. Nunes today in 
recognizing the career achievements of Mr. Gary Serrato. It is both 
fitting and appropriate that he is named the 2018 Agriculturist of the 
Year, as he retires from his position as General Manager of the Fresno 
Irrigation District at the end of this year. Gary has left his mark on 
the community and we are all grateful for his vision and leadership. I 
ask that you join me in wishing Gary and his family continued success 
and prosperity.