Leaders from across the state focusd on the future of agriculture this month as the Kansas Department of Agriculture hosted the 2016 Kansas Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth on Tuesday at the Manhattan Conference Center. Agriculture is the state’s largest industry, employer and economic contributor and plays a critical and strategic r
ole in overall statewide economic growth.
The Summit provided participants the opportunity to connect with other Kansas agriculture leaders and discuss strategies to help ensure agriculture remains a vital foundation of the Kansas economy. Sessions at the Summit were built upon the more than 200 meetings already conducted with industry partners throughout the state to identify key opportunities for future success in agriculture.
“Kansas farmers and ranchers feed the world and at the same time work hard to preserve our state’s natural resources,” said Kansas Governor Sam Brownback. “This summit will serve a critical role in ensuring the future strength of Kansas agriculture, as we encourage growth and increased opportunity for the farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses of Kansas.”
Topics addressed at the Summit included nearly all agricultural sectors in Kansas, ranging from beef and wheat to specialty crops and UAS. In addition, discussions were held regarding transportation, access to capital, barriers to entry, consumer awareness and community acceptance of agriculture, international trade, water and natural resources, and workforce development.