Kansas Corn joins efforts to 'Thank a Farmer' at Ag Day Mar. 18

"If you eat today, thank a farmer." That's the message Kansas commodity groups, along with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Department of Commerce, will share on Kansas Ag Day on March 18. The Kansas Corn Commission and Kansas Corn Growers Association united with agriculture organizations in celebrating Kansas Agriculture Day on Thursday. Ag Day highlights a week long celebration of agriculture in Kansas and across the country. Ag Day activities will be held in Topeka on Thursday. In addition, the group worked with John Deere dealers to place tractors in the communities of Wichita, Overland Park and Tribune to raise awareness of agriculture.

"Kansas Agriculture Week and Ag Day are great opportunities to connect with our leaders and our communities," according to KCC Chairman Mike Brzon, Courtland. "It is important to get the word about agriculture and how farmers care for their land and animals as a part of their livelihood. We should thank all farmers and ranchers for putting food on our tables."

Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson signed a proclamation declaring the week of March 14 Kansas Agriculture Week and March 18 Kansas Agriculture Day. The proclamation noted Kansas' leading roles in grain and beef production, as well as its second place ranking in cropland. 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 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," Parkinson said. "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."

On Ag Day, the Kansas agriculture community will host a luncheon for legislators. Participants will receive a packet of information on Kansas agriculture. In addition, the commodity groups will have displays at the event and be available to answer questions about agriculture.

"We are fortunate that our state's leaders understand the value of agriculture -- that's not the case in every state," according to KCGA President Bob Timmons of Fredonia. "That's why it is critically important that we continue to supply our leaders with information about what we do on our farms and agriculture's importance to ours state's economy."

"Agriculture is our bedrock. The economy may wax and wane, but demand for food never ends," Josh Svaty, secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture said. "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."

For more information on Kansas corn, visit www.ksgrains.com.