Alabama Catfish Month

WHEREAS, since the 1960s, the farming of United States farm raised catfish has given Alabamians a stable income and an economical food product for its consumers; and

WHEREAS, in Alabama, more than 200 commercial farmers produce 25 different aquatic species, with farm raised catfish being the dominant species; and

WHEREAS, the state of Alabama ranks second in the United States in annual catfish sales, and produces more than 100 million pounds of catfish per year; and

WHEREAS, Alabama farm raised catfish is a healthy, low cholesterol choice that contributes to the practice of better nutrition and healthy eating habits; and

WHEREAS, farm raised catfish not only furnishes Alabama consumers with a delicious delicacy, but also provides a nutritious, low-calorie source of protein; and

WHEREAS, Alabama’s catfish farming has created thousands of jobs in our state, which contributes to the local and state economy; and

WHEREAS, these Alabama catfish farms have helped build Alabama communities by providing local jobs, new businesses and a growing tax base; and

WHEREAS, Alabama Catfish Month recognizes a locally grown Alabama food product that has become a major part of not only our state’s economy, but the entire country:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of August 2012, as

Alabama Catfish Month

in the state of the Alabama, and urge citizens to make the choice to include Alabama farm raised catfish on their menu, whether they are dining out or preparing a meal at home.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 22nd day of August 2012.

      

Governor Robert Bentley