Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata highlighted National Agriculture Day on Mar. 24, focusing on the theme “Agriculture: Together We Grow” and expressing appreciation for those involved in growing and harvesting food.
National Agriculture Day recognizes the importance of agriculture to both local communities and the nation. The day is an opportunity to thank farmers, ranchers, and everyone involved in ensuring a steady supply of food.
“Happy National Agriculture Day to our nation’s farmers, especially our own here in American Samoa. Locally, our farmers provide our delicious island favorites that grow well in the rainy tropics. We enjoy fresh options like coconuts, bananas, papayas, taro, breadfruit, and sweet potatoes. Nationally, we appreciate farmers and ranchers raising crops that provide thousands of products, such as rice and other grains for bread and cereal and much more, including milk and meat,” Amata said.
Amata also spoke about the next Farm Bill that Congress is expected to authorize soon. She said she looks forward to this major five-year legislation which was last completed in 2018 but has been extended through the current fiscal year. “Farm legislation supports our food security, sustainability, research, crop insurance, and disaster assistance, and directs vital nutrition programs including our grant in American Samoa,” she said.
As Vice Chairman of the Western Caucus serving with many representatives from agricultural backgrounds across the country, Amata acknowledged that U.S. agriculture feeds millions both within America’s borders and abroad.
“Thank you to farmers and everyone who has a role in the supply chain making sure plenty of good healthy foods reach our tables and support our families,” she said.
