Parkinson urges Kansans to “thank a farmer” during Agriculture Week

TOPEKA—Governor Mark Parkinson is urging Kansans to remember where their food comes from and “thank a farmer” during Kansas Agriculture Week, which runs from March 14 to 20.

“Agriculture has always been the backdrop to life in Kansas.  It’s a tradition that predates our statehood, and it continues to contribute to our economic well-being,” said Parkinson.  “Whether it’s a Thomas County wheat farmer, a Flint Hills rancher or a truck farmer from Johnson County growing heirloom tomatoes, Kansas farmers and ranchers help fill our food, fiber and fuel needs.  During Agriculture Week, especially, we need to remember to thank them for the work they do.”

Parkinson recently signed a proclamation to declare March 14 to 20 Kansas Agriculture Week and March 18 Kansas Agriculture Day.  It noted Kansas’ leading role in wheat, grain sorghum and beef production, as well as its second place ranking in cropland, and third place rank in land in farms and sunflower production.  Also noted was the $13.9 billion market value of all agricultural products sold in 2008, which placed Kansas seventh in the nation.  The same year, the state ranked sixth in farm product exports, valued at $5.9 billion. 

“Agriculture is our bedrock.  The economy may wax and wane, but demand for food never ends,” said Josh Svaty, secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture.  “During these challenging economic times, it’s good to know that one in five Kansans has a job that is tied in some way to agriculture and food production.”

Svaty said the agriculture community is taking its “thank a farmer” message to the streets during Kansas Agriculture Week.  John Deere dealers will have combines on display on Kansas Agriculture Day, March 18, at locations across Kansas. 

• Hen House Market, 135th and Metcalf, Overland Park
• Century II, Wichita
• Main Street, Tribune

Each of the combines will be sporting a banner with the message, “If you EAT today, THANK a FARMER.”