Friends and neighbors,

I am proud to support Naomi Riess for House District 59.

I have known Naomi for more than 20 years through our work in agriculture, the Fair, horticulture programs, and sustainable agriculture efforts in our community. Over those years, I have watched her step up time and again to do the hard work that keeps our rural way of life strong.

Naomi currently serves as Chair of the Florida Mesa Planning District, where she has taken the lead in implementing the district plan and coordinating directly with the county. Florida Mesa faces ongoing challenges involving irrigation infrastructure, land production, and thoughtful growth. Naomi understands those issues because she has taken the time to study them carefully and work through them thoroughly. She is knowledgeable about agriculture, irrigation systems, and land use policy, and she approaches each issue with preparation and practical thinking.

When questions come up, Naomi is informed. She does her homework. She understands how decisions made at the state level affect producers, property owners, and families on the ground.

As a fourth-generation member of this community and a rancher, I care deeply about the future of agriculture in Southwest Colorado. I have served as Fair Board Secretary for 25 years, Livestock Superintendent for over a decade, Past President of the Colorado Independent Cattle Growers Association, and currently serve on the Colorado Brand Board by appointment of Governor Polis. I also serve on the La Plata Water Conservancy District and have been Secretary of the Cherry Creek Irrigation District for many years. Water, land stewardship, and responsible policy are not abstract issues to me, they are daily realities.

Naomi is strong enough, grounded enough, and guided by common sense. She will earn the votes of this district and represent us with confidence and clarity at the Capitol.

I fully endorse Naomi Riess for House District 59.

Lorene Bonds
Fourth Generation Community Member
La Plata County Rancher