On the recordJuly 21, 2025
I rise to honor Joel Nelson, a proud son of the San Joaquin Valley who served 37 years as the head of California Citrus Mutual. Mr. Speaker, you should understand that California produces 80 percent of all the citrus consumed in the United States: navels, Valencias, mandarins, and lemons. Joel was the leader for the voice of our citrus growers and a fierce advocate for valley agriculture. From the orchards of Tulare, Fresno, and Kern Counties to the packing sheds, he always fought every day to protect our farmers, our water, and our way of life. He dedicated his life to uplifting others always with energy, passion, and a deep love for the valley we shared. His excitement for the work was contagious, and his leadership helped shape the citrus industry for generations to come. We will miss his voice, but his legacy will live on in every grove in California.
Source
govinfo.gov
