WHEREAS, It is the tradition of the Washington State Senate to honor the vital services provided by trade associations who together with individual association members have uniquely shaped and developed the full agricultural productivity in the Northwest; and
     WHEREAS, Far West Agribusiness Association is celebrating its golden anniversary this year; and
     WHEREAS, Far West's regional footprint spans the states of Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and Nevada, maintaining its primary office in Spokane, Washington; and
     WHEREAS, Far West is made up of over 150 agriculture businesses that provide products and services to farmers in all crop areas and commodities employing approximately 2,400 people in the region; and
     WHEREAS, Far West provides industry knowledge and training to its members and to the public that protects and ensures a vital, abundant, safe, and affordable food supply, while making a meaningful and steadfast contribution to the economy of Washington State and others; and
     WHEREAS, Far West provides in-house specialized training to its members in the safe handling of fertilizer and pesticide products, protecting its members' employees and members of the public; and
     WHEREAS, Far West assists legislators at both the state and federal levels when requested on matters of general and specific interest; and
     WHEREAS, Far West acts as a liaison among various organizations, helping to develop a consensus enabling agriculture to speak with one voice when possible;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate hereby acknowledge and honor Far West Agribusiness Association of Spokane, Washington, in celebration of its 50th year in operation; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the Far West members through its executive director, Jim Fitzgerald.