SAF fly-in highlights grower losses, funding priorities on Capitol Hill
SAF delegation met with lawmakers to push for floriculture research funding and inclusion in a proposed $15B–$17B aid package. Learn more about the details of this meeting to support floriculture.
Key takeaways
- SAF urged Congress to maintain FNRI research funding at current levels
- Growers and retailers highlighted supply chain impacts from weather losses
- Industry seeks inclusion in a proposed $15B–$17B federal aid package
A delegation from the Society of American Florists (SAF) met with 11 congressional offices April 14 to advocate for floriculture research funding and inclusion in federal economic relief programs.
Nine industry representatives, including growers, wholesalers and retailers, participated in the spring fly-in as lawmakers begin shaping fiscal year 2027 appropriations. The group called for maintaining funding for the Floriculture and Nursery Research Initiative (FNRI) at fiscal year 2026 levels and expanding access to federal aid for specialty crop producers.
FNRI funding has grown from $500,000 in its first year to $6.4 million and supports research in mechanization, pest and disease management, postharvest handling and production efficiency. SAF members said continued investment is critical to business stability across the supply chain.
Victoria Register of FernTrust said it was important for lawmakers to understand how grower challenges affect the broader market. Grower Austin Bryant of Heart of Florida Greenhouses cited freeze-related losses that reduced supply and increased costs. Retailer David Mitchell of Mitchell’s Flowers and Events said disruptions at the production level directly impact wholesalers, retailers and consumers.
“I buy from FernTrust and Heart of Florida Greenhouses,” Mitchell said. “So, when they suffer losses from freezes and don’t get aid, that hurts me — and my customers too.”
Delegates also pointed to rising input costs and limited eligibility for USDA assistance programs compared to other agricultural sectors. As Congress considers a proposed $15 billion to $17 billion aid package, SAF urged inclusion of floriculture businesses.
SAF senior lobbyist Joe Bischoff said direct engagement from industry members helps lawmakers understand the economic stakes and policy impacts.
FAQ
Q: What is FNRI?
A: The Floriculture and Nursery Research Initiative funds research on production, pests, mechanization and postharvest handling.
Q: How much funding does FNRI receive?
A: Funding has grown to $6.4 million.
Q: Why is the industry seeking federal aid?
A: Growers face rising costs, weather-related losses and limited access to existing USDA programs.
Q: What aid package is being considered?
A: Congress is considering a $15 billion to $17 billion economic assistance package.
Q: Who participated in the fly-in?
A: Growers, wholesalers, retailers and industry representatives from across the floriculture sector.
What this means
Funding decisions and aid eligibility could affect research progress and financial stability across the floriculture supply chain.
For more information about SAF’s advocacy efforts, visit Society of American Florists website.