Education campaign launched to mark National Ag Week

This week is the 38th annual observance of National Ag Week. Every year, as the first official day of spring approaches, agriculture moves into the spotlight. "It's no accident that Americans enjoy the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supply in the world," said Todd Staples, Texas Agriculture Commissioner. Last week at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Commissioner Staples unveiled a new educational campaign to tell consumers about the countless ways in which farmers and ranchers play a vital role in the everyday lives of American families. "Agriculture is Your Culture" is the initiative designed to dispel myths about the agriculture industry. Through the "Agriculture is Your Culture" website and outreach materials, the true story of Texas agriculture is told in ways that relate to everyday life, Staples said. "Our farmers and ranchers make it possible to feed our growing population through meticulous care and efficient use of our land and resources. They also contribute to amazing strides in lifesaving medicine, research, education and other agriculture-dependent technologies. Criticism aimed at agriculture is based largely on sensationalism. This campaign sets the record straight with the facts."...more