NCC Commends Distinguished Service of Rep. Berry

MEMPHIS - The leaders of the National Cotton Council (NCC), the central organization of the U.S. cotton industry, commended Rep. Marion Berry (D-AR) for his distinguished public service. Throughout his career, first as a senior USDA official and later during his seven terms as the Representative for Arkansas’ 1^st District, Marion Berry has been a tireless and effective advocate for family farmers and rural Americans.

“We deeply regret Representative Berry has decided not to seek another term in Congress,” said Larry McClendon, the NCC’s immediate past chairman and a Marianna, Ark., farmer. “He has provided a strong voice in Congress for our nation’s family famers who produce an abundant, safe and affordable supply of food and fiber while providing jobs and making substantial contributions to the rural economy. His leadership and enthusiasm for the contribution that farmers and rural Americans make to our nation’s economic and social fabric will be sorely missed.”

Allen Helms, a past NCC chairman and Clarkedale, Ark., farmer, said, “As Congress works to address complex and difficult issues and as we begin thinking about the next farm bill, Representative Berry’s experience, balanced views and deep knowledge of farming and the rural economy will be missed by the agriculture community and by his colleagues in Congress.”

Current NCC Chairman Jay Hardwick noted that the NCC looks forward to working with Representative Berry for the remainder of his term and wishes him much success as he returns home to his family and farming operation.