Issue Position: Agriculture

Issue Position

As a Member of the House Agriculture Committee, Congressman John Garamendi is focused on helping the 3rd District's agricultural sector thrive. As a cattle rancher, pear farmer, and small business owner, Garamendi understands the trials and tribulations faced by farmers. The 3rd District contributes more than $3 billion in agricultural production, and Garamendi understands how important it is to keep this sector vibrant.

California's extreme drought should be a call to action for the entire state, and Congressman Garamendi is leading the charge for real substantive reform that improves the situation for farmers, fishermen, and communities throughout the state, while protecting the Delta and water rights.

Congressman Garamendi's water plan for all California would create the new water California desperately needs through water recycling, conservation, and storage -- and create many jobs in the process.

Garamendi was also a strong leader during extensive Farm Bill negotiations that led to final passage of a bill that works for our region. The bill includes:

The Specialty Crop Research Initiative, authorized for $800 million in funding, with a designation of funds to assist with research on citrus disease;

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which received a funding increase up from $55 million to $72.5 million;

The Organic Research and Extension Initiative, authorized for $100 million in funding and for the first time an organic check-off program has been authorized to allow the industry to fund a USDA research and promotion program for organic products;

Maintained funding for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program while creating a pilot program to allow elementary schools to purchase fresh, frozen, canned and dried produce;

The creation of the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) for the USDA to work directly with third parties and producers in watershed and other critical conservation areas. The Secretary will be able to name up to 8 RCPPs;

The Program for Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers, funded at $50 million, and an expansion of programs to include veteran farmers and ranchers;

Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops; and

The Market Access Program funding, which is maintained at $200 million per year.

Garamendi's Agricultural Advisory Committee offers the Congressman quarterly guidance on agricultural needs in the 3rd District, and his doors are always open to farmers in the district with concerns or questions about federal policy.

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