March 6, 2012

Gov. Dave Heineman has declared March 4-10 Nebraska Agriculture Week. This coincides with National Agriculture Week.

“Nebraska Agriculture Week offers a time to acknowledge our appreciation for the hard working farmers and ranchers in our state,” said Gov. Heineman. “Agriculture plays an essential role in our daily lives. Nebraskans greatly appreciate our farmers and ranchers, and I encourage all to recognize the significance the agricultural industry plays in our state.”

“In Nebraska, our farmers and ranchers provide us with a safe and wholesome food supply each and every day. Their commitment to their animals and the land is greatly appreciated,” said Dir. Ibach. “I encourage everyone to learn more about how Nebraska producers are feeding the world, and take the time to say thank you.”

Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson said, “We very much appreciate the Governor taking the time to celebrate and recognize agriculture week. Although we work in agriculture every day of the year, we enjoy this week long celebration as it gives us an opportunity to recognize agriculture and the important role it plays in our lives and in the Nebraska economy.”

Nebraska’s largest industry is agriculture. Each year, cash receipts from farm marketing contribute over $17 billion dollars to Nebraska’s economy. Nebraska is first in the nation for red meat, Great Northern bean and popcorn production. Nebraska consistently ranks in the nation’s top five producers of corn, soybeans, hay, and dry edible beans, and top 10 for production of hogs, grain sorghum, winter wheat and table egg layers. Additionally, Nebraska consistently ranks in the top four states in the nation in agricultural exports.

According to Nebraska Farm Bureau, one of every three jobs in Nebraska exists because of Nebraska agriculture – in farming and ranching, food and fuel processing, marketing, distribution, research, and regulation.

NDA News Release