Adam Putnam Unveils Agriculture Plan

Speaking to the Florida Farm Bureau, U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam, the Republican candidate for commissioner of agriculture and consumer services, released his plan on Thursday for the future of farming in Florida.

Putnam backs educational outreach programs in schools and in outside organizations such as the 4-H and Future Farmers of America. He supports increased roles for small farms and local growers, and calls for research into new crops to be grown in the Sunshine State. Putnam also seeks expanded markets for Florida agriculture, a greater connection between farming and renewable energy, and more agro-tourism. The congressman pledgesto work with the federal government and the state university system to crack down on pests and diseases that could threaten crops.

The strength of Florida agriculture depends on growers and producers who are dedicated to the implementation of policies that will foster growth and spur modernization of the industry, said Putnam. I believe my plan will promote the advancement of Florida agriculture, strengthen our states economy and allow Florida to become a leader well beyond this viable industry.

Putnam also announced that he had obtained a new URL -- www.freshfromflorida.com --which currently takes viewers to his campaign website. He promised, if elected, to use the domain to promote Florida agriculture.

Actively promoting our states agricultural commodities is not only essential to the strength of agriculture in our state, but also to the health and safety of all Floridians, said Putnam. Fresh from Florida is a solid foundation of marketing our states quality agricultural products and will be built upon to expand the outreach of those commodities to our state, nation and world.