This week (March 17 through March 23) is National Ag Week, and as a rural, farming community, this is an important week for District 1. However, Nebraska agriculture entails much more than our corn, though we are the #2 ethanol producer in the nation. According to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Nebraska is the #2 producer of popcorn in the nation. We are also ranked 6th for soybean, sunflower, and sugar beet production. Nebraska is home to the 4th highest amount of farm and ranchland, with 44,400 farms and ranches using up 89.4% of our state’s land.

Of course, agriculture is not just about farming. Nebraska is home to many ranches. In fact, Nebraska is home to 22 million acres of rangeland. We are the #1 beef and veal exporter in the nation, ranked 8th for pork exports and 6th for the number of pigs and hogs.

Nebraska is home to many young ag producers. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture reported that 11% of our ag producers are under the age of 34. As a rural Nebraskan myself, I understand just how important our rural, ag communities and culture are not only to our state but also to our nation. I am proud to serve the Nebraska farmers and ranchers of District 1. One out of every four jobs in our state is related to agriculture. Farmers are some of the hardest-working people in our state, and our policymakers should recognize them as such. Thank you to our farmers and ranchers and their families who keep our state, and our nation, fed and running smoothly.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604; telephone 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.