The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) and the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) provide a wide variety of programs and services to a diverse constituency. These programs and services support farm profitability, help preserve and protect New Jersey’s natural resources, strengthen the overall economic viability of agriculture in our state and ensure a continuing supply of high quality, nutritious and affordable food and agricultural products, and foster innovative initiatives.

In support of these programs and services, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture and SADC received a FY 2005 state appropriation of $22,963,000, which has permitted the continuation and delivery of proven programs and services, as well as providing funding for new initiatives undertaken in response to changing agricultural industry needs.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the delegates to the 90th State Agricultural Convention, assembled in Atlantic City, New Jersey on January 24-26, 2005, respectfully request the Governor and the members of the Legislature to continue their strong support for the NJDA by providing a level of funding at least equal to FY 2005 levels in order to maintain the NJDA and SADC’s programs and services.