Congressman Valadao, Secretary Perdue Host Agriculture Roundtable in Arvin

Press Release

Today, U.S. Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-21) joined United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue along with local agriculture leaders for an executive roundtable in Arvin, California discussing policy as it relates to agriculture in the United States.

The roundtable featured farmers and others who work within the Central Valley agriculture community who discussed with Secretary Perdue a variety of topics, including agricultural trade, immigration, water, and tax policy.

Rep. Valadao, who serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee, stated how important it is to hear from those within the agriculture industry so he can fight to ensure resources are effectively distributed to the programs California farmers rely on most.

Rep. Valadao stated, "After today's roundtable, I am confident Secretary Perdue is a voice in Washington who truly understands the obstacles farmers and ranchers deal with every day." He went on, "Especially now, as Congress crafts the 2018 Farm Bill, it is absolutely critical our California agriculture industry has input. Today's roundtable allowed local farmers, ranchers, and operators to discuss the issues impacting Central Valley agriculture directly with Secretary Perdue, ensuring our voice is heard in Washington."

Participants in the roundtable included:
Jeff Huckaby; President; Grimmway Farms
Rob Yraceburu; President, Wonderful Orchards, LLC
Tito Martinez; Chief Operating Officer, Val-Mar Farms
Charlie Fanucchi; Second Generation Kern County Farmer
Matt Fisher; Fourth Generation Kern County Citrus Farmer
Brandon Grimm; General Manager of Organic Operations, Grimmway Farms
Kevin Pascoe; General Manager Farming Division; Grimmway Farms
Kevin Andrew; Third Generation Table Grape Grower
Prior to the roundtable event, Secretary Perdue joined Rep. Valadao for a tour of Grimmway Farms in Arvin, California.

Source