It’s easy to look at agriculture and assume it’s a world away from our daily lives—especially if you don’t live on a farm or work in ag-related industries. But the upcoming State of Agriculture event is here to remind us that agriculture does impact everyone. Whether you’re a small business owner, teacher, healthcare worker, city employee, or student, what happens in our agricultural sector shapes the health and future of our entire community.
So, you might be thinking:
“I don’t farm, so this doesn’t affect me.”
But let’s explore a simple “what if.”
What if we no longer had enough pork producers to sustain JBS?
What if JBS—a major employer and economic engine in our region—shut down?
That’s not just a hypothetical. It’s a real concern. The strength of our ag industry directly supports jobs, families, school enrollment, housing demand, grocery stores, restaurants, service providers, local governments—and so much more.
Agriculture is the Backbone—Not Just of Rural America, But of Our Whole Economy
In regions like ours, ag drives everything. From corn and soybean farmers to pork producers, ag haulers, vet clinics, processing plants, and equipment dealers—these businesses create a ripple effect that touches every corner of our local and regional economy.
JBS, for instance, isn’t just a packing plant. It’s a major employer that relies on a steady, healthy pipeline of livestock from local producers. If the number of producers declines—and that’s happening—it puts strain on their operation. And if they can’t source enough animals? They scale back. Or shut down. And that would absolutely affect you, even if you’ve never set foot in a barn.
The State of Agriculture Event: A Conversation That Includes You
That’s why attending the State of Agriculture event is more important than ever. It’s not just for farmers. It’s for:
- Elected officials who shape policy and investment.
- Business owners who depend on a stable workforce and economy.
- Educators who see firsthand the impact of declining enrollment.
- Healthcare providers watching trends in community health and access.
- Anyone who eats food, pays taxes, or wants their hometown to thrive.
This event brings together experts, producers, economic leaders, and the broader public to talk about what’s working, what’s at risk, and how we move forward together.
Why You Should Attend
- Learn what’s really happening in ag—beyond the headlines.
- Hear from producers and processors about their challenges and innovations.
- Understand how agriculture shapes workforce, housing, schools, and infrastructure.
- Engage in a conversation that helps ensure our community remains strong and sustainable.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to be a farmer to be affected by agriculture. When ag succeeds, our communities grow. When it struggles, we all feel the strain—whether we realize it or not. The State of Agriculture event is your opportunity to get informed, get involved, and be part of the solution.
Because if the day ever comes when plants close, jobs disappear, and families leave—it won’t matter if you thought agriculture didn’t affect you.
It will.