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Governor says ag will continue to thrive in Missouri

Governor Mike Kehoe says farmers and ranchers are critical to Missouri’s economic success.

During his State of the State address earlier this week, he said the agriculture industry contributes $93.7 billion to the state’s economy, but there is room to grow. “As Lieutenant governor, I was proud to work with education and agriculture stakeholders on the Missouri Food, Beverage and Forest Products Manufacturing Task Force, where we identified areas for future growth through value-added practices,” he says. “Our budget also includes funding to expand Missouri’s meat and poultry inspection and production capacity. Which will aid in minimizing delays for producers.”

He says the administration is proposing to issue bonds to support the construction of two new facilities on the Missouri State Fairgrounds.  “Once fully operational, we expect these investments to pay for themselves by attracting more national and regional events and shows,” he says.  “Bringing increased economic activity to the entire Sedalia region.”

He says Missouri agriculture will continue to give back to those in need. “Claudia and I are proud to participate in the Drive to Feed Kids each year at the fair held by Missouri Farmers Care since 2017,” he says.  “This event has provided over 13 million meals to Missouri children and families. In partnership with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Missouri Farmers Care is bringing this meal packing event to the state capital again this session.”

Kehoe says the state’s budget also included $800,000 in permanent funding for the Missouri FFA.