Agriculture Overview"I was raised on a tobacco farm in Spencer County and completed a degree in Agriculture Education from Western Kentucky University. Those in the Agriculture Community deserve legislators with knowledge of their daily tasks and struggles. Lawmakers must be willing to listen and work with all those involved in crop and livestock production. "
-John Hurley |
Indiana Agriculture
Agricultural production is vital to Indiana and the nation. According to IN.gov, agriculture contributes $31.2 billion to Indiana’s economy. Indiana is the 8th largest agricultural exporter in the U.S. and 10th largest farming state. Hoosiers are #1 in commercial duck production, #2 in popcorn, ice cream, chickens, and eggs, #4 in turkeys, and #5 in corn, soybeans, and hogs.
With agriculture such a major component of our lives, it is extremely important to have legislators with an agriculture background. I was raised on a farm in Spencer County. Attending Western Kentucky University, I majored in Agriculture Education, served as an Agricultural Ambassador, and was a member of Collegiate FFA. Working with the Spencer County Soil and Water Conservation District allowed me the opportunity to collaborate with farmers and landowners across Southwestern Indiana to implement land management projects. During my time with Superior Ag CO-OP in Warrick County, I assisted in supplying the supports needed by our local farmers. I have taught agriculture education at both the high school and middle school levels. I will use this experience to prioritize the following issues:
With agriculture such a major component of our lives, it is extremely important to have legislators with an agriculture background. I was raised on a farm in Spencer County. Attending Western Kentucky University, I majored in Agriculture Education, served as an Agricultural Ambassador, and was a member of Collegiate FFA. Working with the Spencer County Soil and Water Conservation District allowed me the opportunity to collaborate with farmers and landowners across Southwestern Indiana to implement land management projects. During my time with Superior Ag CO-OP in Warrick County, I assisted in supplying the supports needed by our local farmers. I have taught agriculture education at both the high school and middle school levels. I will use this experience to prioritize the following issues:
- Expand broadband internet coverage to every last mile
- Encourage rural economic growth while protecting farms
- Promote Career and Technical Education
- Protect property rights and local control