Celebrating those who feed the world

On Tuesday, we celebrated National Agriculture Day. A number of groups came to Washington this week to discuss the immense benefits of American agriculture and the issues facing the industry.

The Future of Agriculture in Missouri

I was visited on #NationalAgDay by Missouri FFA State Vice President Katie Imhoff, a California area native and Northwest Missouri State University student; Jacqueline Janorschke, a representative from Agriculture Future of America and Mizzou student; and Missouri FFA State Vice President Heidi Murry, a student at the College of the Ozarks and Lebanon area native.

I am inspired by the knowledge, proficiency and enthusiasm of these young leaders to share the positive story of agriculture and tackle the complex issues facing the industry. They represent Missouri well, and rural America is blessed to have them as ambassadors.

#MO4 Farmers

Among the visitors to the Nation’s Capital this week were about 85 directors, county presidents and officers of the Missouri Farm Bureau in Washington to meet with American Farm Bureau Federation leaders, explore the city and to meet with Members of their Congressional Delegation.

I was delighted to spend time with a large group of farmers and agri-business professionals from our district and hear their thoughts on what their work means for people in Missouri and well beyond our state’s borders.

Almost 6.5 million acres of our district’s roughly 9 million acres is dedicated to agriculture. Missouri’s Fourth plays a vital role in the nation’s agriculture industry and is a large part of Missouri’s economic livelihood. Agriculture is Missouri’s number one industry, and, as a member of the House Agriculture Committee it is great to hear from those who live it every day.

Spirit of Enterprise

I was honored to receive the Spirit of Enterprise award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for my100% voting record of supporting small businesses and economic growth.

As a small business owner, I understand what Missouri job creators are facing. I am grateful to the Chamber for its efforts in supporting business across the country, and I am honored to receive this award. My commitment to advancing legislation that spurs economic and job growth is unwavering, and I will continue working to promote free-market, pro-growth policies for Missouri and Missourians.

What do you think?

It was a privilege to host a live, interactive telephone town hall earlier this month where I was able to engage with over 5,100 of you. It was a joy to hear from Missouri’s Fourth during this time.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter.

Have a great week,

Vicky Hartzler

Member of Congress