LIVE OAK, FL – Recently, Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. toured the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) North Florida Research and Education Center in Live Oak, FL with Florida Farm Bureau.

During the tour, Congressman Dunn discussed with representatives from UF/IFAS and Florida Farm Bureau the importance of protecting Florida producers from burdensome regulation, as well as how critical research funding is for the agriculture industry.

“UF/IFAS has an impressive operation and continuously churns out great work. The importance of agricultural research funding cannot be overstated. Our producers play a pivotal role in our nation, and they must be given the tools necessary to produce their best crops and meet market demands,” said Congressman Dunn. “I’m grateful to the Florida Farm Bureau and UF/IFAS for hosting me. I will continue to work closely with them to advance the interests of Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and foresters.”

“Florida farmers’ global competitors enjoy plentiful low-cost labor, less stringent environmental regulation and often government subsidies. Innovation keeps American farmers in business,” said J. Scott Angle, UF vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of UF/IFAS. “This requires public investment in engines of innovation such as our experimental farms. Congressman Dunn’s visit demonstrates that he appreciates the return on such investment.”

“In order to create sustainable policy solutions for the future, we need dedicated people, such as Congressman Dunn and the researchers of UF/IFAS, who recognize the needs of Florida agriculture,” stated Florida Farm Bureau President John L. Hoblick. “Florida agriculture specifically needs resources devoted to improving our existing commodities in the state, as well as researching the viability of promising new crops. Congressman Dunn continues to prioritize those needs of our producers, and we are grateful for that.”

Background Information:

Congressman Neal Dunn has a long-standing record in putting Florida producers first. He previously served on the House Agriculture Committee and the House-Senate conference committee charged with resolving the differences over the 2018 Farm Bill. Additionally, he was awarded the Congressional Friend of Farm Bureau Award for his work in the 115^th and 116^th Congresses.

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.

ifas.ufl.edu  |  @UF_IFAS

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