The 2023 Missouri State Fair was a success, with a record number of exhibitors and new all-time highs in the Sale of Champions. The fair offered something for everyone, from livestock shows and carnival rides to concerts and fair food. For many farmers, the fair was also an opportunity to talk about farm policy.
Missouri Farm Bureau partnered with the University of Missouri Extension to host the annual Farm Family Day. Families from all over the state came to celebrate their accomplishments and enjoy a day at the fair together. The honorees were treated to a special dinner, where they heard from House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson. Thompson was joined by fellow House Agriculture Committee members Monica De La Cruz and Jonathan Jackson.
The guests from the House Agriculture Committee also experienced some of the fair's offerings, such as candied bacon and milking a cow. The main event of the day was a Farm Bill listening session, where farmers and fairgoers had the opportunity to share their concerns and needs for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill.
The Missouri Farm Bureau also hosted a legislative press conference and Senator Josh Hawley's Ag Advisory luncheon. These events gave farmers and ranchers the chance to visit with their elected officials and discuss important issues, such as the upcoming Farm Bill, affordable health care, and drought relief.
The state fair is a great opportunity for farmers and ranchers to connect with their elected officials and share their concerns. It is also a chance for legislators to learn about the challenges facing agriculture and how they can help. The conversations that took place at the 2023 Missouri State Fair will be important as lawmakers work to shape the future of agriculture in Missouri and across the country.
Photo Credit: Missouri State Fair
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle