Congressman Dennis Cardoza
18th Congressional District of California

WASHINGTON – WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Dennis Cardoza received a top award from the United Fresh Produce Association for his efforts on the 2008 Farm Bill.

Specifically, he was recognized for “Outstanding Leadership in Elevating Produce Issues and Policy Efforts in Congress.”

United Fresh Produce Association is a leading trade association committed to the growth and success of produce companies and their partners. United Fresh represents the interests of member companies throughout the global, fresh produce supply chain, including family-owned, private and publicly traded businesses as well as regional, national and international companies.

As a Chairman of the Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture and a member of the conference committee, Mr. Cardoza helped to include historic investments in specialty crops, conservation, and nutrition programs in the bill, as well as commonsense improvements to the subsidy programs.

Mr. Cardoza said he was honored to receive the recognition for his efforts, which included a federal investment in specialty crops and $150 million subprogram within EQIP for air quality improvement for areas in non-attainment of air standards like the Central Valley.

“Agriculture represents the heart of our Valley,” Congressman Cardoza said. “The assistance provided to our local growers represents some of the most important legislative work I have fought for – and won – during my tenure in Congress. Receiving this recognition from the United Fresh Produce Association is a tremendous honor.”

The 2008 Farm Bill contains historic funding for programs that are priorities to specialty crop farmers, conservationists, and nutrition advocates. This funding includes resources for research and pest detection, block grants, organic farming, farmer’s market promotion, the Environmental Quality Improvement Program (EQIP), and the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Snack program, which helps provide fresh fruits and vegetables to low income school children.