For Immediate Release

March 18, 2013

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Florida/Virgin Islands Farm Service Agency

PO Box 141030

Gainesville, Florida 32614-1030

(Gainesville, FL), March 14, 2013 — The Florida Farm Service Agency (FSA) suggests that we all take a moment in these turbulent fiscal times to celebrate agriculture and honor our hard-working farmers and ranchers in Florida. State Executive Director Tim Manning announces that March 19 is National Ag Day and this year’s theme is “Generations Nourishing Generations”.

“According to recent USDA studies, the agricultural sector right now remains a bright spot in terms of economic stability and growth and there is a strong demand for U.S. agricultural products,” said SED Manning. “Generation after generation of agricultural producers in Florida are getting up early every day to provide the food, fiber and fuel that feed and clothe Americans and others around the world.”

Manning further notes, “As research advances, the future may be even brighter. New uses for 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.”

Despite the onslaught of natural disasters weathered by farmers and ranchers this past year that created less than ideal growing conditions, producers still managed to grow the commodities that keep our economy moving forward. And they maintain our abundant supply of renewable resources in an environmentally sensitive manner. “For their life sustaining efforts, we honor Florida's agricultural producers for their vital contribution,” said SED Manning.

Major commodities produced in Florida include citrus, sugar cane, nurseries, fruits, vegetables, and livestock. Florida agricultural production contributed $3.8 billion in export revenues last year alone.

Today each American farmer produces enough food to feed more than 144 people, a dramatic increase from the 25 people a farmer sustained in 1960. These increased efficiencies demonstrate that American Agriculture is producing more – and doing it better than ever before.

AgDay is a project of the Agriculture Council of America. For further Ag Day information and events visit www.agday.org.

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