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Research is often key to resolving challenges that have regulatory or other implications, and support for ample research funding is an integral component of our advocacy efforts. Beyond the Horticultural Research Institute’s own direct research funding, we support funding for federal research programs and activities. To build on the momentum of AmericanHort’s successful advocacy in the 2018 Farm Bill, we support funding the following successful research and innovation programs:
The Floriculture and Nursery Research Initiative (FNRI) is a unique partnership involving USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), universities, and industry (including AmericanHort). It is often held up as a model for other industries. FNRI is vital to our industry efforts to overcome pest and diseases challenges, enhance the efficiency of our production practices, develop and promote sustainable growing practices, and advance the economic, environmental, and human health benefits of our industry’s products and services. AmericanHort supports sustaining the FNRI program’s funding, including the maintaining the additional $1M Congress provided in FY18 and FY19 into FY2020.
AmericanHort supports continued investment in the National Clean Plant Network, a private partnership, supported by USDA, which protects key sectors from pathogen threats by providing access to pathogen-tested accessions of the newest varieties of tree fruit, berry, roses, and other high-value horticultural crops.
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program exists to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, including “horticulture, nursery crops (including floriculture), fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and dried fruits.” AmericanHort supports continued funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program at the Farm Bill-authorized level of $85M annually.
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