Protect Our Nation's Food Security!

The Voters of Palm Beach County, Florida established the Agricultural Reserve for the purposes of Agricultural Preservation, Water Management and open space, with extremely limited development. The Agricultural Reserve is one of the largest producers of winter vegetables in the nation, and landowners in the Agricultural Reserve have had full knowledge of the development restrictions that apply to their land. The Board of County Commissioners of Palm Beach County wants to develop the Agricultural Reserve, and has initiated a process that includes a small group of stakeholders, including developers, to make decisions about development. This Roundtable Process does not include all those dependent on the Agricultural Reserve for winter produce. American sources of produce in the winter months are important for our nation's food security. The Agricultural Reserve covers nearly 22,000 acres of unincorporated land located west of the Turnpike and north of the Broward County Line in South Florida. This location’s micro-climate unique in Florida, allows for optimal year-round conditions for agricultural cultivation, and contains uniquely located wetlands.The Agricultural Reserve is one of the largest producers of winter vegetables in the nation and the prime supplier of local fresh vegetables to the hospitality and restaurant industries. This highlights its continued economic value and contribution to the County’s economy. It also provides aquifer recharge that protects our water supply. Therefore, I urge the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners to: 1. Oppose further development in the Agricultural Reserve, 2. Object to the Roundtable Process that does not recognize all who depend on the Agricultural Reserve for winter produce as stakeholders, and 3. To protect our food security and water supply.