SD: SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
News Date February 16, 2010
Agriculture is South Dakota’s No. 1 industry and is often considered the “common thread” that binds the state. To illustrate the importance of agriculture to state residents and the economy, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) has published a brochure with key facts about the industry in South Dakota.
“As producers, we are often too humble to spread the message about how we raise the food, feed, fiber and fuel the world needs,” said South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture Bill Even. “Our state’s farmers and ranchers take great pride in efficiently producing food while implementing sound conservation practices and taking care of their animals. This brochure will help them spread that message.”
As South Dakota works to develop a 21st century renewable economy, agriculture is positioned to be the state’s competitive and comparative advantage.
“The continued development of our agricultural industry is an important part of the state’s economic development efforts. Agriculture has ties to education, technology, medicine, research, commercialization, manufacturing and renewable energy,” added Richard Benda, South Dakota Secretary of Tourism and State Development. “It is definitely an industry we all need to help promote.” (Contact: Alison Kiesz, 605-626-3272)