Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Missouri's Agricultural Foundation

Celebrating Missouri’s Agricultural Foundation

This week marks the beginning of the 2011 Missouri State Fair. As the events kick off at the fair grounds in Sedalia, we are reminded of the important role agriculture has played in shaping the history and culture of our state. Blessed with rich abundant farmland, our economic fortunes have long been tied to the agricultural industry and the ups and downs that accompany this unpredictable business. Even with these uncertainties, agriculture continues to be our number one economic industry providing employment for approximately fifteen percent of Missouri’s workforce.

Making a living on the farm is never easy and new challenges are constantly emerging. Like many other sectors of our economy, Missouri’s farmers now compete in a global economy; therefore, localized issues that drive up the cost of production make it increasingly difficult to realize a profit. Although we have seen great progress and modernization throughout this industry, Missouri’s farmers must continue to pursue innovation and aggressive new business practices in order to remain competitive in the ever evolving global marketplace.

Every Missouri farmer will acknowledge and accept the challenges delivered at the hand of Mother Nature, however they cannot sustain nor compete if they are constantly being hindered by their own government. This summer, we have once again seen first-hand how the mismanagement of natural resources has negatively impacted farmers throughout our state. We have fought the federal government as they continue to create unreasonable and excessive regulatory burdens on Missouri’s agricultural producers. And every day, environmental activist groups and other special interests relentlessly attack both plant and animal production and all those who drive their livelihood from this industry.

In northwest Missouri, agriculture is still the cornerstone of our local communities. We have a proud history of agricultural achievement, and we must remain a leader in this dynamic industry. We must build upon past successes while embracing future innovations. These innovations along with the strong work ethic of Missouri’s agricultural producers will ensure that the farmers of our state will continue to feed this nation while supporting the communities we call home.

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 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.