South Carolina Celebrates Ag Day
South Carolina Department of Agriculture
Hugh E. Weathers, Commissioner
Media Contact: Stephanie Sox, 803-734-1767, ssox@scda.sc.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 15, 2016
South Carolina Celebrates Ag Day
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Nikki Haley has proclaimed March 15, 2016 as Ag Day in South Carolina. In a ceremony earlier today held on the State House steps, Senator Danny Verdin and Representative David Hiott presented the Governor’s Proclamation to South Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers.
2016 marks the 43rd anniversary of National Ag Day, a day set aside to celebrate the abundance provided by American agriculture. As the world population increases, there is an even greater demand for the food, fiber and renewable resources grown right here in South Carolina. Through efforts like Certified SC Grown and Fresh on the Menu, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture promotes locally grown foods while reconnecting consumers and farmers.
“After the devastation that South Carolina farmers faced in 2015, they certainly deserve to be celebrated,” said Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers. “Farmers provide the food, fuel and fiber that keeps our state and country running, and they do it all while protecting valuable natural resources.”
Agriculture is a driving force of the South Carolina economy: it’s the number one industry generating $41.7 billion in annual economic impact and supporting over 200,000 jobs statewide. There are approximately 25,000 farms in the state.
For more information about Ag Day or the programs and services offered by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, please visit agriculture.sc.gov.
###