A coalition of American flower farmers recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in a historic moment in U.S. floriculture history.
On Feb. 27, Congresswoman Lois Capps and Congressman Duncan Hunter, both from California, announced the formation of the Congressional Cut Flower Caucus. Representing a bi-partisan effort to support and promote the domestic cut flower and greens farmers, the caucus is open to all members of Congress to join.
Benno Dobbe was a part of the delegation of flower farmers who were on hand to witness the official kickoff of the caucus and to help recruit their members of Congress to join. Dobbe’s flower farm, Holland America, is located in Woodland.
“I was extremely proud to be a part of this important occasion,” said Dobbe. “Having a caucus focused on the future of flower farming in this country couldn’t be more timely.”
Dobbe also met with Congresswoman Jaime Herrera-Beutler, inviting her to join the newlyformed caucus.
“Congresswoman Herrera-Beutler was completely supportive and agreed to join the caucus,” said Dobbe. “She not only loves flowers, but also understands how important flower farming is to our economy.”
A roundtable discussion marked the occasion of the newly-formed caucus. Caucus co-chairs Hunter and Capps outlined the caucus’ focus on educating fellow members and staff on the economic and cultural importance of America’s cut flower and greens farmers, as well as the challenges U.S. farms face.
Future events will provide greater understanding of the issues and opportunities facing America’s cut flower farmers, their families and their flowers.
