U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross was recognized with the Friend of Farm Bureau award for the 113th Congress.
This award is presented to members of Congress who are receptive to the needs of farmers in their state by sponsoring, co-sponsoring and voting for legislation that will address high-priority agricultural issues.
“It is a privilege to accept the Friend of Farm Bureau award,” Ross said. “It is truly an honor to represent farmers throughout Florida. Our state has a thriving agricultural sector, and the health of Florida’s economy relies heavily on the farming and citrus industry. Florida’s citrus farmers supply about 56% of the orange juice consumed in the United States. We must allow the livelihood of farmers and Florida agriculture to continue to flourish. I will continue to fight to make sure all resources are being effectively allocated to farmers.”
“He has demonstrated a commitment to federal policies that enhance our state’s economy, conserve our resources and strengthen our rural communities,” said John Hoblick, president of Florida Farm Bureau Federation.
Ross was nominated by the Florida Farm Bureau, and his nomination was approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Board of Directors.
Ross has led the fight for Florida agriculture. He helped pass the Farm Bill in January, which included $125 million to fight citrus greening and provided certainty to farmers, ranchers and growers across Central Florida and the Tampa Bay region. He also asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to take action to help keep diseased Florida citrus groves productive by providing short-term research initiatives.