By Scout Nelson
On March 18, coinciding with National Agriculture Day, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation held a news conference to underline the immense economic contributions of agriculture in Nebraska. Highlighting agriculture as not just a cornerstone of Nebraska’s economy but also a key to sustainable growth, the event shed light on the sector's massive impact across the state.
Agriculture in Nebraska supports over 244,000 jobs and generates $97.4 billion in sales output, along with more than $6 billion in tax revenue annually. These figures underscore the sector's role as a vital economic driver, affecting both rural and urban areas profoundly.
Mark McHargue, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation board of directors, noted the widespread influence of agriculture, which accounts for over 40% of jobs in more than half of Nebraska’s counties. He pointed out the diverse opportunities the sector holds for the state's workforce, from family-owned farms to major agribusinesses.
Douglas County, in particular, stands out within the state. It contributes an impressive $3.9 billion to the local economy, which is significantly higher than any other county. It also leads in agricultural employment, providing over 29,000 jobs related to the sector. Following Douglas, Lancaster County also makes substantial contributions with $1.4 billion added to its economy.
David Bracht, president of the Agriculture Council for the Greater Omaha Chamber, emphasized that agriculture’s influence extends well beyond traditional farming areas to urban centers like Omaha, where it fosters considerable career opportunities across various facets of the industry.
Sherry Vinton, director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, highlighted Omaha's role as a hub for agribusiness innovation. The city offers a diverse range of agricultural careers, from traditional farming to cutting-edge agri-tech roles, proving that the sector is integral to the state’s innovation landscape.
The event not only celebrated the economic impact of agriculture but also its everyday relevance to Nebraskans, from the food they eat to the clothes they wear and the fuel they use. McHargue reinforced the idea that agriculture’s influence is omnipresent in everyday life, underlying the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation's commitment to promoting agricultural awareness and education across the state. For more details about the foundation's mission and activities, visitors can check www.nefbfoundation.org.
Photo Credits:nebraska-farm-bureau
Categories: Nebraska, Business, General