As the only Member from the Pacific Northwest on the House Agriculture Committee, I am honored to be a voice for our region and our proud farming heritage. Washington State’s climate, rich soils, and large-scale irrigation make it one of the most productive growing regions in the world, enabling farmers to produce over 300 different crops each year. We are the nation’s top producing state of apples, pears, and cherries – many of which are grown in Washington’s 8th Congressional District. Our growers produce top-quality fruits that are in high demand around the globe, with roughly one third of our crops exported each year.

I know that certainty in trade and access to new export markets is critically important to our farmers and growers in order to make strategic, on-the-ground investments. We also need fair and predictable rules that level the playing field between small farmers and big agribusinesses. Supporting local food production, such as family farms, farmers’ markets, institutional procurement of local food, and other local marketing channels, will help sustain agriculture in our communities and encourage healthy eating. Additionally, we need to increase investments in agriculture research that help our farmers lead the way as responsible stewards. Changing weather patterns and the associated impacts of climate change require mitigation and adaptation solutions. Whether it is preparing for a prolonged drought, changing growing seasons, or unexpected reductions in farm labor, we must ensure we are prepared for the future.