U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn has received the Friend of Farm Bureau Award.

The Colorado Springs Republican received the honor Tuesday at his district office.

The award goes to leaders “who understand how difficult it has been to grow much-needed products such as food and grains in this environment,” Lamborn’s office said.

“I am honored to accept this award on behalf of all of the farmers and ranchers in our district,” Lamborn said in a statement. “Our farmers and ranchers make up the backbone of our economy and provide much needed resources. I will always work to ensure our agricultural industry remains strong and robust and free of Washington bureaucratic control.”

Lamborn sits on the  House Committee on Natural Resources and is a member of its subcommittee on energy and mineral resources.

“Colorado farmers and ranchers have struggled with low commodity prices, water issues, and natural disasters such as wildfires,” said Gary Paul, who represents a district that includes Elbert, Douglas, and El Paso counties on the Colorado Farm Bureau board. Paul presented the award to Lamborn.