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We appreciate the opportunity to submit this statement regarding the 

 importance of H.R. 2927, the Plant Variety Protection Act Amendments, to our 

 industry. 



The Society of American Florists (SAF) is the only national trade association 

 representing the interests of the entire floral industry. The floriculture industry 

 grows, distributes and sells cut flowers and foliage, potted flowering and foliage 

 plants, and bedding plants to the American public. Our membership includes 

 more than 23,000 small businesses nationwide: growers, wholesalers, retailers, 

 suppliers, educators, and related organizations. 



Floriculture is an important part of U.S. agriculture. USDA statistics show 

 that the floral and envrionmental horticulture industries together - flowers, plants 

 and nursery stock combined - represent almost 1 1 percent of all crop agriculture 

 in this country, with over 10,000 growers. These industries represent the fastest 

 increasing segment of agriculture, growing about 8 percent per year over the past 

 few years. The estimated 1 993 farm gate value of floriculture and environmental 

 horticulture crops is $9 billion, ahead of all other crops except corn and 

 soybeans. Combined nursery and greenhouse crop production now rank in the 

 top five agricultural commodities in 23 states, and in the top ten commodities in 

 42 states. 



