Agriculture

SEATTLE — Most crab fishermen from Washington are already in Alaska preparing for the start of the season in just ten days, but if the government shutdown drags on, they’ll be forced to stay docked. “The problem is the federal government is the one that actually issues the permits,” said Mark Gleason, who represents the industry. “The people in charge of… Read more »

A few key federal grants announced this week could help Whatcom County berry farmers improve growing efficiency and export sales.The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $3.2 million in Specialty Crop Block Grants to Washington state, with about $345,000 going toward programs that will benefit local farmers. The funding for these grants is already in place and shouldn't be affected… Read more »

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene praised the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today that $3.2 million in grants were awarded to Washington state through the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) Program. These grants will support Washington producers of fresh fruits and vegetables by funding research to improve growing practices and helping farmers gain… Read more »

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene gave the following remarks on the floor of the House Representatives today regarding her vote on the latest version of the Farm Bill, which fails to authorize nutrition programs.  It would harm millions of working families, seniors and children. The full text, as prepared for delivery, is below:“Mr. Speaker, I rise with great disappointment today.… Read more »

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene released the following statement following the House of Representatives failed to approve a new Farm Bill:“As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I’ve worked to ensure that our local farmers and food producers have a strong voice in Congress. Additionally, I’ve fought for a Farm Bill that is humane and protects our safety net which… Read more »

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene introduced amendments to the Farm Bill that would save free school meals and update eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) while also reducing the federal deficit. Currently, H.R. 1947, the Farm Bill, cuts $20.5 billion from nutrition programs like SNAP, which would result in nearly two million people losing SNAP benefits… Read more »

MOUNT VERNON — Local farmers and agricultural advocates largely supported the newest versions of the 2013 farm bill on Wednesday at a round-table discussion with U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene.Read the full article HERE. Read more »

LYNDEN, Wash. – Representative Suzan DelBene says it is crucial that Congress pass a farm bill.She will be visiting Lynden Friday to meet with local farmers and businesses for a round table discussion. Read the full story HERE. Read more »

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene released the following statement following the House Committee on Agriculture’s passage of the Farm Bill: Read more »

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene today introduced a bipartisan resolution supporting specialty crops, highlighting the vital role they play in America’s agricultural industry and calling for the inclusion of specialty crop programs in a new farm bill.“Whether it’s red raspberries, blueberries, green peas or any number of different fruits and vegetables grown by our local… Read more »