Capitol Report for August 13th, 2008

The Missouri State Fair
Last week marked the beginning of the 106th Missouri State Fair. For the past century, the Missouri State Fair has served as a gathering point to showcase the hard work and efforts of Missouri’s farmers and their children. This grand event is where Missouri’s agricultural leaders come together to see the best of the "Show-Me State."
Our great state has prospered from the hard work and economic successes created by our agricultural industry. From traditional ranchers and row crop farmers to the emerging plant sciences and value added farming producers, Missouri farmers have consistently embraced innovation and fueled our economy. This commitment to innovation, hard work and being a leader in technological adoptions has ensured a strong foundation for the economic health of our communities.
The State Fair also plays a critical role of encouraging and rewarding young farmers who are just beginning to experience the challenges and rewards of the agricultural industry. Thousands of young farmers compete every year as they showcase their skills and love for farming. Hopefully, these young farmers who have grown giant pumpkins or who are showing livestock will follow their passion to farm on a farm of their own.
Organizations such as Farm Bureau, Future Farmers of America, and 4-H have taken on essential roles in promoting the agricultural industry, its opportunities, and the quality of life afforded to those growing up in rural Missouri. As parents and mentors, we need to work to instill in young people the importance of the agricultural industry and the many benefits that we as society are provided by it. And as a legislature, we need to continue cultivating, promoting, and fostering agricultural opportunities in Missouri while working to reduce excessive government intrusion.
Being an active and productive member of the agricultural industry is more than just making a living; it is a way of life. Events such as the State Fair and our local county fairs are critical in rewarding the hard efforts of our young farmers and inspiring them to continue working the farm into the next generation. I hope everyone has an opportunity to visit the Missouri State Fair and see tomorrow’s agricultural leaders in action as they showcase the best Missouri has to offer.
As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.