03.18.15

Hoeven Marks National Agriculture Day

Senator Celebrates Farmers, Ranchers' Contributions to Affordable, Safe Food Supply, North Dakota's Economy

WASHINGTON – In recognition of National Agriculture Day, Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement:

“Agriculture is North Dakota’s top industry,” Hoeven said. “Our state is home to nearly 31,000 farms across almost 40 million acres. In 2012, our farmers and ranchers’ hard work produced $11 billion dollars in products, including $4.4 billion in exports, increases of 80 and 56 percent in just five years.

“Those sales support our economy, local businesses and jobs for our people. In fact, the agriculture industry contributes to one out of every four jobs in the state. Further, our agricultural producers ensure a safe and affordable food supply for our county and the world. We continue our efforts to provide them with the support and tools they need to remain successful in their vital work.”

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Agriculture Committee and conference committee that crafted the final version of the 2014 farm bill, Hoeven works to support agriculture producers through risk-management tools, research, education and other programs. The senator emphasized that farmers and ranchers have done their part in helping address the country’s debt and deficit, noting that the farm bill included $23 billion in savings.

National Ag Day is organized by the Agriculture Council of America, a non-profit organization that works to increase the public’s awareness of agriculture’s role in modern society.

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