In the News - May 2009
Homespun advice from a veteran county agent
Fueling the economic engine
BENTONVILLE, Ark. - It seems that each day we develop a better but belated
appreciation regarding the impact that viable industries have on local
economies. Possibly a collective weakness is our failure to recognize various
components of a community as contributors to the overall economic health.
All across Arkansas, Farm Family recognition is an occasion where positive
information about the families and their impact on rural communities and our
state is shared with the general public. Agriculture is not only a complex
industry with its many variables, components and players, but in most counties,
it's one of the largest economic engines.
In considering the $7.5 billion market value of agricultural products
generated in 2007 across the state, that number should leave a positive mental
picture. If not, let me take a different approach by noting that, like any
household or business, farmers also have expenses.
Essentially, Arkansas farmers spend 82 percent of their annual income, or
$6.1 billion each year to pay expenses. Farm families purchase electricity,
equipment, feed, food, fuel, services and supplies, send their kids to school,
buy vehicles and pay taxes like every other family and industry. Ask anyone
associated with the service and supply side and they will quickly note, "When
the ag economy is healthy, my business is healthy!"
Things aren't always rosy and, like other businesses, many farms are
operating in the red. Unfortunately, over half of Arkansas farmers found
themselves in the net loss column during the last reporting year. No doubt this
is one reason why, unlike professional sports, you don't see a lot of talented
young individuals jump at the chance to get into the business of farming.
Although, the average market value of products sold per farm in Arkansas was
13 percent higher than the national average, like other segments of our economy,
the agriculture engine is sputtering!
Perhaps if you do nothing else to support farmers this year, if you happen to
fall behind their slow moving equipment along a county road or state highway,
practice some courtesy and try to use fewer of those obnoxious hand signals. Til'
next week!
For more information about how Arkansas farmers contribute to your county's
economy, contact your county extension agent. The Cooperative Extension Service
is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.
May 22, 2009
By: Robert Seay
Benton County Extension Agent Staff Chair
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187
ljames@uaex.edu
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