Holden Gets Golden Plow Award

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tim Holden (PA-17th District) has been recognized for his work on behalf of American farm families with the Golden Plow Award, which is the highest honor the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) presents to members of Congress. Holden received the award during a presentation before more than 150 farmers from Pennsylvania, who are in Washington D.C. to participate in Pennsylvania Farm Bureau's 2009 National Legislative Conference.

"Representative Holden was a steadfast supporter of agriculture and Farm Bureau's policies during the 110th Congress," said AFBF President Bob Stallman. "With critical issues such as maintaining farm bill support, renewable energy policy and regulatory concerns facing our farm families, Rep. Holden's understanding of agriculture will be key during the 111th Congress. We look forward to working even closer with him in the months ahead," added Stallman.

Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) cited numerous instances in which Representative Holden, who is Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, demonstrated leadership and action on behalf of Pennsylvania farmers when nominating him for the Golden Plow Award. Only one member of the U.S. House and one member of the U.S. Senate are recognized each year.

"Congressman Holden has been a strong and consistent supporter of Pennsylvania agriculture and played a significant role in helping to craft a Farm Bill that includes economic safety net programs for farmers, new marketing and research opportunities for fruit and vegetable growers and strengthened funding for conservation programs that advance water quality," said PFB President Carl T. Shaffer.

Farm Bureau recognized Holden's efforts to pass legislation that clarified a section of the Farm Bill to restore economic safety net benefits to farms with small parcels of land. Mr. Holden also worked to extend and strengthen the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program, which is providing some assistance to dairy farmers now that milk prices have dropped dramatically over the past few months.

"It's such an honor to receive this award from the Farm Bureau. Agriculture is so important to my home state of Pennsylvania, and I'm pleased I could play a role in supporting our farmers who provide us with food, fiber and fuel. I appreciate having worked with the Farm Bureau for nearly 17 years, helping to sustain agriculture in Pennsylvania and across the nation," said Congressman Tim Holden.

Pictured, Congressman Tim Holden of Pennsylvania (center) receives the Golden Plow Award from American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman (left) and Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President Carl Shaffer (right) during a ceremony in Washington D.C. as part of PFB's National Legislative Conference.
(Photo courtesy of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau)