[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 15 (Thursday, January 22, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E68]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING ANNIE WATSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CHELLIE PINGREE

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 22, 2026

  Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to recognize Annie 
Watson as the 2026 recipient of the Maine Department of Agriculture, 
Conservation and Forestry Commissioner's Distinguished Service Award. 
This recognition honors Annie's remarkable leadership and service in 
Maine's agricultural community.
  Since opening an organic dairy farm in Whitefield with her husband, 
Michael Moody, in 2013, Annie has dedicated her life to building strong 
and resilient local food systems in our state. She is currently 
President of the Maine Dairy Industry Association and has served in 
leadership roles of the Northeast Organic Family Farm Partnership, 
Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, and the Agricultural 
Council of Maine.
  There are many challenges that come with operating a small farm--
brutal physical work, tight budgets, long hours, unpredictable 
weather--the list goes on. This work demands adaptability, 
determination, and resilience. Annie exemplifies all these traits and 
more. She is a leader. She has not only grown a successful dairy 
business but uplifted the voices of farmers across Maine and the 
Northeast through her advocacy.
  Annie recognizes the interconnectedness of our farms and communities, 
and has steadfastly devoted herself to strengthening these ties, 
carrying on Maine's agricultural legacy, and bolstering our food system 
and economy.
  In the words of Annie herself, ``Maine farms are not just part of our 
scenery--they are part of our soul.'' We are so lucky to have her 
leadership in our state. I thank Annie for all her work to empower our 
farming community and feed Maine's soul.

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