Rep. Dent receives award from CropLife America

DAVENPORT – State representative Tom Dent, 13th district (R), was recently recognized by CropLife America (CLA) recognized Dent with its State Leadership Award for his support of farmers, ranchers and the pesticide industry.

"Given the importance of agriculture to my legislative district and Washington State, I am honored and humbled to receive this award and be recognized by CropLife America," said Dent, R-Moses Lake. "Strengthening our agricultural industry has always been a high priority for me. It is a way of life for so many and everything they do effects everyone. It is a critical part of our economy and puts food on the table."

The CLA's State Leadership Award honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership in state legislative or regulatory areas that promote initiatives that preserve and protect the ability of farmers to provide a safe, affordable and sustainable food supply. It also recognizes those who perform outstanding service by developing or implementing methods, programs or legislation to improve and strengthen the agricultural community.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has us faced with a global crisis we have never experienced before. Being part of the ag industry is a reminder that during these times we must ensure our food supply is secure and we can keep our farms sustainable, viable and have the necessary workforce to get our products to market," said Dent.

Dent, who is a rancher in Grant County, recently co-chaired an aerial herbicide application safety task force created by the Legislature. He began flying spray planes in 1976. Prior to flying planes Dent worked on farms and ranches. He purchased his own ranch in 1998 where he has raised hay, grown pasture and produced bison and beef.

He has also been a strong supporter of Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H programs as well as worked on many other water and ag-related issues before the Legislature.