Corn farmers, industry representatives, and guests from across the state gathered in Jefferson City this week for the Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) annual meeting and legislative day.
The morning kicked off at the Capitol Plaza Hotel with MCGA's annual meeting, where Gov. Mike Parson provided the keynote address. Members also reviewed financials, heard from industry leaders, and elected four board members: Brent Hoerr of Palmyra in District 3 representing northeast Missouri; Brice Fischer of Rock City to represent west-central Missouri growers in District 4; Brandon Thiel of Marshall to represent District 5 in central Missouri; and Clint Stephens of Advance to represent District 7 in the southeast region.
Following the annual meeting and luncheon, growers visited the State Capitol to discuss the importance of Missouri's corn and ethanol industries with legislators and their economic impact on the state.
"We are fortunate to have a governor and strong coalition of legislators that recognize the importance of agriculture as the state's number one industry," said MCGA President Jay Schutte of Benton City. "We don't take these relationships for granted -- especially with new faces being elected every few years. There are numerous issues impacting growers being discussed regularly in the halls of the State Capitol, and we need to maintain a presence to ensure grower voices are heard. Our thanks to those who took time away from the farm to join us this week and in the weeks ahead."
Members also took the opportunity to honor industry supporters for their contributions to the corn and ethanol industries. Award recipients included:
Friend of Corn Growers Award
- Cong. Emanuel Cleaver
- Cong. Jason Smith
Public Servant Award
- Sen. Jason Bean
- Sen. Dan Hegeman
- Rep. Rick Francis
- Rep. Dan Houx
- Rep. Jeff Knight
Outstanding Partner
- Marla Young, Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority
President's Award
- Mike Moreland, Harrisonville
Honorary Lifetime Award
- Jay Fischer, Jefferson City
Years of Service
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Corn