U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins recently visited Indiana. During the visit, she toured Everett Farms and Seed, LLC in Lebanon and delivered a keynote speech at the National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. This was her first visit to the state since taking office earlier this year, according to the Indiana House Republicans.
State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) highlighted Rollins's visit and the role of agriculture in Indiana's economy. "Agriculture is synonymous with Indiana and our farmers are the cornerstone of the state's economy, providing crop production, raising livestock, and feeding Hoosiers across the state," Baird stated in a press release. He also noted that the visit showcased Indiana's agricultural capabilities and referenced a recent legislative measure he authored, which allows excused school absences for FFA and 4-H students participating in educational events.
Baird’s announcements emphasized Indiana’s role in national agriculture, with the state ranking high in the production of popcorn, gourds, duck, pumpkins, spearmint, and turkeys. Indiana’s agricultural exports are also expanding, as Taiwan has signed letters of intent to purchase approximately $6.4 billion in U.S. corn and soybeans over the next four years from the Indiana Corn Marketing Council and the Indiana Soybean Alliance.
The National FFA Convention and Expo featured a keynote address by Secretary Rollins and will continue to be held in Indianapolis through 2040. Baird stated that the event brings an estimated $40 million annually to the local economy. A weekly e-newsletter on Baird’s website provides updates on Indiana agriculture.
