Chairman Harris and House Committee On Agriculture Chairman Thompson Hold Listening Session at UMES

Washington, D.C. – Today, Chairman Andy Harris, M.D. (R-MD) was joined by House Committee on Agriculture, Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, (R-PA) in holding a listening session at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). They were joined by several agriculture stakeholders, including those representing farmers and watermen, as well as local officials.

“I’d like to thank Chairman Thompson for coming to Maryland’s First Congressional District today and I would also like to thank UMES President Heidi M. Anderson for hosting us all for this important event. Agriculture is both the economic and cultural backbone of the First District and it is vital that the concerns of our local farmers and agricultural stakeholders are addressed in the Farm Bill.” Rep. Harris said.

“Listening to the concerns of America’s producers and consumers is essential as we draft a highly effective Farm Bill. Thank you to Dr. Harris for bringing together this group of agricultural stakeholders to discuss what’s working and what needs to be tweaked in this year’s Farm Bill.” said Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson.

“The federal Farm Bill is a vital piece of legislation for America’s farmers and it’s a milestone for land-grant colleges, especially 1890 Land Grants like UMES. We conduct research vital to crop management. We help local farmers address global challenges like climate change. And we help communities understand the importance of agriculture to our nation’s food supply and local economic development,” said UMES President, Dr. Heidi M. Anderson.  “But this year’s legislation is also crucial because it provides an opportunity to address a funding inequity that has plagued HBCUs for decades.” UMES President said.

“It is always a privilege to showcase the important research and extension activities undertaken by our faculty and students. This work addresses critical issues that impinge on our communities such as securing our food supply, and safeguarding our natural resources,” said Moses T. Kairo, professor and dean of the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences at UMES. “Without the resources provided through the Farm Bill, UMES would not be able to carry out this important work for the betterment of the state and beyond.”Moses T. Kairo, professor and dean of the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences at UMES said.