Dateline: March 18, 2004

Combs calls on Texans to celebrate agriculture

AUSTIN – Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs announced that March 14 to 20 is National Agriculture Week in Texas – a time to celebrate the state’s farmers and ranchers and acknowledge this far-reaching industry that adds some $73 billion to the Texas economy.

“From healthy food to fresh flowers to warm clothing, agriculture touches our lives every day,” Combs said.  “Agriculture provides us with generous amounts of nutrients to feed our bodies – iron from lean meat, calcium from milk, vitamin A from carrots, vitamin C from citrus, to name just a few of the ways Texas-raised foods make us healthier.”

Combs kicked off National Agriculture Week in Texas by signing a proclamation March 14.  She will cap off the week by honoring more than 100 farming and ranching families during the 29th annual Family Land Heritage Ceremony in Austin March 19.

Donley County Commissioners have also adopted a resolution declaring March 14 to 20 as National Agriculture Week in Donley County.

“Whether your role involves growing food and fiber or just consuming it, you can take pride in Texas agriculture and the important role that it plays in our future.” Combs said. “It is an industry that continues to meet the ever-increasing needs of consumers throughout Texas and around the world.”

From the Gulf Coast to the Panhandle, Texas is the most agriculturally diverse state.  Agriculture generates $73 billion annually throughout the state’s economy, with one out of every five Texans working in an agriculture-related industry.

“National Agriculture Week gives us a chance to recognize the people who consistently enrich our lives in many ways.  Texas is the second-largest agricultural state in the United States, accounting for about seven percent of the total US agricultural income. 

“Eighty percent of the land in Texas is in some form of agricultural production.  It is important to honor those in agriculture who have built on centuries of progress by making constant advances in research, technology, production, and marketing to meet the changing demands of consumers.”