Farmer testifies Tuesday before Congress

Submitted

Gilchrist County dairyman, Ron St. John was chosen to speak on Tuesday, Aug. 9, in Orlando before a subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce regarding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed changes to Florida’s nutrient water quality standard.
St. John is the managing partner of Alliance Dairies, the 2011 Florida Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year and a Gilchrist County Farm Bureau member.
He spoke on behalf of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) and Florida farmers about the effects proposed changes will have on the agricultural industry. His testimony spotlighted the effectiveness of current regulations protecting surface and ground water, and explaining how proposed changes are not attainable under any science-based model. Additionally, these changes will place an unnecessary financial strain on agriculture and the rest of Florida’s economy.
“He was chosen because he is great at what he does and part of farming is caring for the environment and water quality,” said Charles Shinn, FFBF assistant director of government and community affairs.