Ashe/Alleghany County USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Julia Houck announced that today is National Ag Day, and invited all citizens to celebrate this area’s agriculture by honoring the hard-working farmers of Ashe and Alleghany County. This year’s theme is “Generations Nourishing Generations.”
“USDA. studies show that the agricultural sector remains a bright spot of economic stability and growth,” said Houck. “There is a strong demand for U.S. agricultural products. Of course, generation after generation of agricultural producers in Ashe and Alleghany County rise early every day, providing the food, fiber and fuel that feed and clothe America and the world.”
“As research advances, the future continues to be positive,” said Houck. “New uses for North Carolina’s ag products are being found to utilize natural ingredients for life-saving medicines and supply the critical commodities required in a long list of manufacturing sectors .”
Houck said that despite recent natural disasters weathered by farmers creating less than ideal growing conditions, producers still managed to grow the commodities that keep the economy moving forward. And an abundant supply of renewable resources in an environmentally sensitive manner was maintained. “For their life sustaining efforts, we honor Ashe and Alleghany County’s agricultural producers for their vital contribution,” said Houck.
Major commodities produced in North Carolina include poultry, hogs, nursery and greenhouse, soybeans, cotton, corn tobacco and cattle. North Carolina agricultural cash receipts exceeded $10.5 billion last year.
Today, each American farmer produces enough food to feed 144 people, a dramatic increase from the 25 people a farmer sustained in 1960. These increased efficiencies demonstrate that American agriculture is producing – and acheiveing more - than ever before.
AgDay is a project of the Agriculture Council of America. For further Ag Day information, visit www.agday.org. For more information on FSA assistance and programs, call 336-246-8875 ext 2 or visit 134 Government Cir., Suite 101, Jefferson.
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