[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 37 (Monday, September 22, 2008)]
[Pages 1224-1225]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8291--National Farm Safety and Health Week, 2008

 September 18, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Agriculture has always been a vital part of America's economy and 
culture, and our farmers and ranchers are among the best stewards of our 
land. During National Farm Safety and Health Week, we recognize those 
working in agriculture for their contributions to our Nation's 
prosperity, security, and health, and we also seek to raise awareness 
about the occupational hazards of this industry.
    Farming and ranching are strenuous occupations, and workers can be 
exposed to many dangers, including those associated with extreme weather 
conditions, operating heavy machinery, and working with livestock. 
Teaching awareness about potential dangers, implementing preventative 
measures, and supervising children as they work and play can help 
mitigate risks and reduce the number of injuries and fatalities on farms 
and ranches.
    Our Nation's farmers and ranchers exemplify the American values of 
hard work, deep commitment to faith, and love of family. During National 
Farm Safety and Health Week, we celebrate these extraordinary men and 
women who are building a prosperous future for our country.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 21 
through September 27, 2008, as National Farm Safety and Health Week. I 
call upon the agencies, organizations, and businesses

[[Page 1225]]

that serve America's agricultural workers to continue to strengthen 
their commitment to promoting farm safety and health programs. I also 
urge all Americans to honor our agricultural heritage and to recognize 
our farmers and ranchers for their remarkable contributions to our 
Nation.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day 
of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:15 a.m., September 
22, 2008]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on September 19, and it will be published in the Federal 
Register on September 23.