Yesterday, United Fresh President Tom Stenzel addressed top agricultural leaders at USDA’s 84^th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum.

As one of the featured speakers on the Plenary Panel General Session, Tom outlined the produce industry’s uniform national agenda and how its strategy to join forces with other specialty crops has put fruits and vegetables at the center of the Farm Bill negotiations. He urged for swift passage of a Farm Bill that dedicates the highest level of funding to specialty crop growers.

In addition, Tom touched on food safety issues and encouraged agricultural leaders to resolve the languishing immigration issue that impacts fruit and vegetable growers. Speaking to Congressional leaders, Administration officials and the media, he said, “With specialty crops already representing almost 50% of farm crop value…, it is time for parity in the investments we make in agriculture.”

We invite you to see and hear the USDA webcast of Tom’s speech and the Plenary Panel General Session, or read a copy of Tom’s written presentation.

Other speakers in yesterday’s panel session included C. Larry Pope, President & CEO, Smithfield Foods; Paul Schickler, DuPont Vice President & General Manager and President, Pioneer Hi-Bred; and Robert Dinneen, President & CEO, Renewable Fuels Association.

The USDA’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum is designed to provide an opportunity for experts in economics, industry, policy, science, and government to explore the future of agriculture. The goal of the USDA Outlook Forum, first held 85 years ago, is to share information that promotes an “intelligent balance of production, marketing, and consumption of farm products for the greatest good of the entire Nation.”