R 290

2003 -- S 1177

Enacted 06/26/03

S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N

SUPPORTING THE RHODE ISLAND DAIRY INDUSTRY AND DAIRY FARMERS

Introduced By: Senators Sosnowski, Felag, Breene, and Blais

Date Introduced: June 26, 2003

     WHEREAS, Agriculture represents our nation’s most basic and necessary industry, has a

long and storied history in Rhode Island, and is of vital importance to the economy and quality of

life in Rhode Island; and

     WHEREAS, Rhode Island’s agricultural industry is greater than a 100 million dollar per

year industry. It has experienced significant growth and expansion in certain segments including

nursery, horticulture, farmers markets and roadside stands, and is constantly adapting to new

market conditions, as well as becoming more diversified; and

     WHEREAS, Up to the mid twentieth century, dairy farming was the traditional and

predominant form of agriculture in Rhode Island. It has experienced severe declines in the past 40

years and is now represented by only 21 farmers in Rhode Island. Current market conditions

within the industry threaten to force the demise of the entire Rhode Island dairy industry; and

     WHEREAS, Preservation and enhancement of the existing Rhode Island dairy industry is

important in order to maintain fresh milk supplies, a potentially vital component of the Rhode

Island agricultural economy. In addition, the industry impacts historic farms, open space, wildlife

habitat, and scenic vistas, which are necessary to maintaining Rhode Island’s number one

industry – tourism; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

hereby expresses our support for the Rhode Island Dairy Industry and Dairy Farmers, and in

particular the cooperative efforts within Rhode Island to sell labeled milk under the trade name

“Proud Cow,” which benefits and enhances this most necessary and important industry.

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LC03561

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