The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance joined more than 50 agricultural organizations in urging additional federal support for America’s farmers, citing continued challenges from market pressures, extreme weather, and global uncertainty. The National Watermelon Association signed on to this effort alongside industry partners, reinforcing the importance of ensuring specialty crop growers are included in any future agricultural aid package.
The coalition emphasized that specialty crops account for approximately one-third of U.S. crop sales and should receive a proportionate share of support. Specifically, they are advocating for no less than $5 billion in dedicated aid for specialty crops, with a program structure modeled after the CFAP-2 framework.
As conversations continue in Washington, the NWA will remain engaged with the Alliance and other partners to advocate for resources that meet the needs of watermelon growers and the broader specialty crop industry.