By Andi Anderson
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb declared March 19th as National Ag Day, recognizing the agricultural industry's significant contribution to the state.
Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, who also serves as the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the importance of agriculture. "It's the backbone of our rural communities, a major employer, and a key contributor to Indiana's economy and social fabric," she said, expressing gratitude to all Hoosiers involved in agriculture.
National Ag Day highlights agriculture's impact on local and state economies. It's a day to celebrate the abundance provided by American agriculture and recognize the hard work of producers, agricultural associations, universities, and others involved in the industry.
Indiana ranks ninth in the nation for agricultural production, boasting over 94,000 farmers and generating over $18 billion annually. These farmers cultivate vast areas of land, implementing soil conservation practices that retain millions of tons of soil each year.
The state boasts a diverse agricultural landscape. Indiana leads the nation in popcorn, gourds, and duck production, while ranking second in pumpkins and third in spearmint, turkeys, and total egg production. Additionally, Indiana is a major producer of peppermint, soybeans, corn, hogs, watermelons, maple syrup, and hemp for CBD purposes.
"Indiana's agricultural industry is incredibly broad," said Don Lamb, ISDA director. "We have traditional row crops and livestock farmers, specialty producers growing popcorn for movie theaters and corn for tortillas, food manufacturers known worldwide for their snack cakes, and organic and direct-to-consumer operations. Everyone has a place in Indiana agriculture, and today we celebrate and thank them for their contributions."
Photo Credit: gettyimages-gabrielabertolini
Categories: Indiana, Government & Policy