American agriculture is responsible for providing the necessities of everyday life…food, fiber, clothing, and even fuel. That’s the message of National Ag Day, which is celebrated this year on March 20. Farmers, ranchers, agricultural associations, corporations, farmers’ market operators, government agencies, and countless others across America will gather to celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture on this first day of spring. This year’s theme is “American Agriculture: Abundant. Affordable. AMAZING.”

Linda Tank, Ag Day committee chairman, says “The focus for 2010 and beyond is to capture the attention of consumers who think they have no relationship to agriculture. Our new campaign reinforces that American agriculture is a part of all of us.”

The National Ag Day program is committed to increasing public awareness about American agriculture. The local production of food, fiber, and renewable resource products are essential to maintaining a strong economy and strong communities across the nation. National Ag Day focuses on educating Americans about the modern agricultural industry and its importance, so they may make informed buying decisions and so young people can consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, fiber and renewable resource industries.

In 2007, the St. Claire Group did a study on the strategic direction for Carroll County. The report found the following statistics: 34 percent of the county’s assessed valuation is agricultural property – nearly four times the state average – and employment in agriculture and related industries accounts for 73 percent of private sector employment among establishments with greater than five employees. Source: Carroll County Agriculture Association Ag Handbook