Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) led the U.S. House Agriculture Committee in adopting a bipartisan resolution designating July as National Blueberry Month. It was approved by a bipartisan, voice vote. The resolution was co-led with Congressman Fred Upton (MI-06).
“The United States is the world’s largest producer of blueberries, accounting for over half of the global production, and Georgia is one of the top 5 blueberry states. Growers of U.S. highbush blueberries have a $4.7 billion annual impact on our country’s economy,” said Congressman Bishop. “I am glad to lead this bipartisan effort with my colleague, Fred Upton, which recognizes our blueberry farmers. As this year’s blueberry harvest season comes to a close, it is a great time to acknowledge the important role that blueberries play in the health, cuisine, and economy of our nation.”
“Southwest Michigan is home to many family-owned-and-operated blueberry farms that produce the best and sweetest blueberries in the world,” said Congressman Upton. “From Michigan to Georgia, agriculture plays an important role in the American economy, and thanks to the hard work and real commitment of our growers back home, Southwest Michigan is the top blueberry-producing district in the country. I’m proud to work across the aisle with my colleague Sanford Bishop to formally designate the month of July as National Blueberry Month beginning in 2022 and recognize all of our top-notch blueberry farmers nationwide.”
Blueberries are often labeled a “superfood,” because they are full of antioxidants, and are known as juicy fruits, which are great for weight loss or maintenance because they contain mostly water. Research also suggests the compounds found in blueberries may delay the effects of vascular dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Georgia is #3 in blueberry acreage, and we are #4 in blueberry production and sales.
You can watch Congressman Bishop’s remarks in support of the resolution during today’s U.S. House Agriculture Committee meeting by clicking here.
Original source can be found here.
