Three citrus grower associations applauded Chairman GT Thompson and the U.S. House Agriculture Committee for including critical funding for the Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program in the recent budget reconciliation draft. The associations were California Citrus Mutual (CCM), Florida Citrus Mutual (FCM) and Texas Citrus Mutual (TCM).
The investment represents a vital commitment to the long-term health and competitiveness of U.S. citrus growers. The Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program is essential to combating devastating diseases like HLB, which continue to threaten the viability of citrus production in the United States.
“We have long advocated for dedicated federal support to address citrus disease challenges through science-based solutions,” said Matt Joyner, FCM chief executive officer and executive vice president. “Chairman Thompson’s leadership reinforces that the needs of our growers are being heard.”
Dale Murden, president of TCM, added: “This is an encouraging step forward for the citrus industry. Our growers are navigating increasing biological threats and economic pressures, and investments like this make a real difference in ensuring a future for U.S.-grown citrus.”
“California’s citrus growers, like our counterparts in Florida and Texas, are facing unprecedented challenges,” said Casey Creamer, president/chief executive officer of CCM. “Inclusion of this program is a strong signal that citrus is part of the future of American agriculture.”
While this funding is an important victory, the citrus industry continues to support passage of a comprehensive, bipartisan farm bill that incorporates the broader set of transformational policy reforms outlined by the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance – including improvements to crop insurance, mechanization investments and fair trade policies. The Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program funding is a meaningful step, but additional action is needed to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the U.S. citrus industry.
Source: CCM
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