Rep. Goodlatte earns Farm Bureau 'Golden Plow' Award

The American Farm Bureau Federation has honored Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) with its "Golden Plow" award. The award is the highest recognition the organization bestows on members of Congress.

Goodlatte was presented the award for his long-standing support of America's farmers and ranchers by AFBF President Bob Stallman and Virginia Farm Bureau President Wayne Pryor.

"Congressman Goodlatte is a vigorous defender of private property rights, both real and intellectual, and he continues to lead the fight against regulatory overreach. He is a champion for private forestry and has worked tirelessly to ensure farmers of all sizes have access to the conservation programs that assist them in maximizing their farms' economic returns while contributing measurable results toward enhancing the environment."

The Virginia Farm Bureau nominated Goodlatte for the award.

Since coming to Congress, Goodlatte has served on the House Agriculture Committee and also serves on the Judiciary and Education & Workforce committees - assignments where he has worked on a number of issues facing farmers and ranchers.

Stallman said that Goodlatte's consistent leadership in Congress is highlighted by his tenure as House Agriculture Committee Chairman, beginning in 2003. While House rules impose term limits on chairs, Stallman said agriculture continues to benefit from Goodlatte's leadership as he closely works as the committee's vice chairman with current House Ag Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK).