MONTGOMERY, Ala. – U.S. Rep. Martha Roby on Sunday was given the Alabama Farmers Federation’s highest honor – the Service to Agriculture Award – for “being a champion for farmers since she was first elected to Congress in 2010.”
The presentation was part of the opening session of the Federation’s 98th annual meeting, which brought nearly 1,400 farmers to Montgomery Dec. 8-9.
Roby, who is not seeking reelection to a sixth term in the U.S. House, played a role in writing two farm bills as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, and also saw farm programs funded as a member of the House Appropriations Committee.
Federation President Jimmy Parnell said Roby’s “grit and determination ensured farmers weren’t forgotten by other leaders in Washington and earned her the respect of agricultural leaders at home and in Congress.
“She enjoys a reputation as an outspoken proponent of conservative, Christian values that mirror those of her constituents in Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. Her work as a former member of the House Committee on Agriculture played a pivotal role in passing the 2014 and 2018 farm bills,” Parnell said.
Mitt Walker, who runs point in Washington as the Federation’s National Affairs Director, went further to praise Roby on both a professional and personal level.
“In working on two farm bills, Congressman Roby was a strong advocate for the peanut program, seed cotton and catfish inspection,” Walker said. “She was also a staunch supporter of eliminating rules and regulations that hampered farmers and landowners in her district and across the state.
“On a personal note, Rep. Roby is one of the most genuine and compassionate people I have ever had the privilege to work with.”
Roby said she was honored by the award, but considered the work on behalf agriculture part part of ther job.
“Since agriculture and forestry are the largest employers in the district and in our state, I take the role as the farmers’ advocate very seriously. I have prioritized spending time with farmers over the years. Whether it was standing in a peanut field or meeting with farmers after a disaster, what they have to say is important to me,” Roby said.
Roby also said she benefited greatly from having direct and lasting relationships with the farming community.
“I’m extremely grateful for the time and effort you have all invested in me over the years. Without your input, I could not have effectively done this job. Serving the people of Alabama’s Second Congressional District is one of my highest honors. Although my time in Washington is coming to a close, I look forward to continuing to build relationships with members of the agriculture community throughout the state.”