Many of you may have had the chance to journey to the State Fairgrounds in Sedalia this August, joining fellow Missourians in celebrating the best of our state’s agricultural traditions. Whether you were there to marvel at the dairy cattle, sheep, and swine or simply to savor your favorite fair foods, the Missouri State Fair offers a unique glimpse into the heart of our agricultural heritage. As we gather to enjoy these traditions, it’s a fitting time to recognize the vital role that agriculture plays in our Third District and across the United States. Missouri stands as one of the leading agricultural states, with an industry that not only supports our local economy but also contributes to the nourishment, clothing, and energy needs of our nation and the world. With a $94 billion agriculture industry and the second-highest number of farms in America, Missouri’s agricultural heritage is a source of pride for all of us.

In the heart of our Third District, places like Warren County and Montgomery County showcase the best of Missouri’s agricultural prowess. Our district is home to thousands of family-owned farms that produce a diverse range of crops and livestock, from corn and soybeans to cattle and poultry. These farms not only contribute to our local economy but also play a crucial role in feeding communities across the country and around the world.

What makes Missouri agriculture truly special is the deep-rooted family tradition that sustains it. Remarkably, 97% of Missouri’s farmland is family-owned, and with two-thirds of our state’s land dedicated to farming, this way of life is being passed down from generation to generation. Meeting with young Missourians in communities like Hermann and St. Elizabeth, who are continuing their family legacies on farms and ranches, is one of the most heartening aspects of my work. Their dedication ensures that our state’s agricultural success will endure for years to come.

Every five years, Congress reauthorizes the Farm Bill, a critical piece of legislation that provides farmers and ranchers with the resources they need to thrive. This bill covers a wide range of programs, from crop insurance to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and is vital in helping our agricultural producers navigate the uncertainties they face, such as weather-related challenges. As we approach the next round of Farm Bill negotiations, I am committed to ensuring that the voices and needs of Missouri’s farmers—especially those in our district—are front and center.

Missouri’s agricultural industry is a cornerstone of our state’s identity, and I am deeply grateful to the hardworking farmers and ranchers who uphold this tradition every day. As we look to the future, I am confident that the next generation will continue to build on this legacy, ensuring that Missouri remains a leader in agriculture for generations to come. Supporting our local farms is one of the best ways to ensure the continued success of Missouri agriculture. I encourage you to visit farmers markets in your area, such as the Cole County Farmers’ Market or the Fulton Farmers’ Market, where you can purchase fresh, locally grown produce and goods directly from the people who work the land. Your support helps keep our farming traditions alive and strengthens our local economy.

Thank you for being an integral part of this proud tradition and for your unwavering dedication to the Third District and state of Missouri.

CONTACT US: I encourage you to visit my official website or call my offices in Jefferson City (573-635-7232) or Cottleville (636-327-7055) with your questions and concerns. If you want even greater access to what I am working on, please visit my YouTube site, Facebook page, and keep up-to-date with Twitter and Instagram.

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