Orlando State Rep. Matt Caldwell, R-Lehigh Acres, has received Florida Farm Bureau’s 2016 Legislator of the Year award. He earned the honor for his leadership in support of responsible policies that help maintain Florida’s natural resources as well as its farm economy, a release from the bureau states.

“Caldwell sponsored a comprehensive water policy package, establishing a statewide, comprehensive and long-term water plan for Florida while ensuring an adequate water supply for agricultural use. Following his efforts at spearheading the issue for more than two years, this legislation overwhelmingly passed the Legislature and was signed into law early into the 2016 session.

“Rep. Caldwell also sponsored a state lands bill that, among many other good provisions, creates opportunities for farmers to exchange agricultural lands for state-owned lands that can be used for low-impact agriculture,” the release states.

“I can’t say enough about the leadership and efforts of Rep. Caldwell,” said Adam Basford, FFB’s state legislative affairs director, in the prepared statement.

“He is an incredibly important ally and powerful advocate for agriculture in the Florida House. His tremendous work in 2016 and over the last several years on complex and controversial issues such as comprehensive water policy and other important environmental stewardship and pro-agriculture policies is appreciated.”

Caldwell received the award at an Oct. 27 luncheon held during Florida Farm Bureau’s 75th annual meeting held at the Caribe Royale Orlando. First elected to the Florida Legislature in 2010, he represents House District 79, which includes Lehigh Acres and parts of North Fort Myers

Florida Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 145,000 member-families. It serves “to enhance farm enterprise and improve rural communities.”

Source: Florida Farm Bureau