Agriculture Means Business in South Dakota

Posted: 7/2/2012

SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: June 27, 2012

Media Contact: Alison Kiesz, 605-295-0155

PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota farmers, ranchers, business leaders, elected officials and other industry professionals gathered in Pierre this week to discuss the business of agriculture in rural South Dakota.

The Governor’s Ag Development Summit explored how to expand the state’s agricultural business sector – from increasing international trade and exports to further developing its livestock industry.

Gov. Daugaard addressed attendees of the Summit stating, “South Dakota has the land, the people, the drive, and the opportunity to build this important economic sector for the next generation.  We must look for ways – right now – to bring in quality development that will help keep agriculture as South Dakota’s No. 1 industry.” 

Among other speakers at the Ag Development Summit was Ambassador Islam Siddiqui from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. He discussed free-trade agreement negotiations and their role in exporting and international trade.

Walt Bones, South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture said, “The Summit helps our South Dakota producers and businesses work toward the common goal of feeding our families and the world.”

During the Ag Summit, one of South Dakota agriculture’s most recognizable personalities was presented with the South Dakota Ag Ambassador Award. The honor was bestowed on Jim Woster (WOOS’-tur) for his contributions to the industry during a long and storied career.

Gov. Daugaard ended his speech on a positive note: “I’m confident we will continue to produce the food, feed, fiber and fuel our growing world needs while remaining a strong component of our economy, because South Dakota agriculture means business.”

Agriculture is South Dakota's No. 1 industry, generating nearly $21 billion in annual economic activity and employing more than 80,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture's mission is to promote, protect, preserve and improve this industry for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at http://sdda.sd.gov or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Editor’s Note: Photos and videos from the Governor’s Ag Summit are available at ftp.nicholsmedia.com.

Username – nmc. Password – downloadnmc

Go to the File Download Directory and the files will be placed in the folder titled ‘SDAg062712’.