Future of Farming

What is the Future of Farming?

During 2008, WSDA is assembling a statewide strategic plan for Washington agriculture. The work is based upon the vision of producers and the realities of the industry now and into the foreseeable future.

This plan is being developed with information provided by our farmers and it is for our farmers. The plan will be used by the Governor, the Legislature and others to help guide future actions.  In order to help prioritize information collected during the life of the project, WSDA's Director appointed a steering committee representing Washington producers and processors.

WSDA is currently requesting input through an online survey on the project’s web site. Those who are not able to participate directly or who would like to provide comments may do so in writing or by filling out the survey.

As opportunities and challenges are identified and prioritized by the steering committee, private and public sector economists, agronomists, educators and other specialists will help to provide subject matter detail.

In summary, the Future of Farming is looking forward about twenty years – a horizon that will force us to prepare for the future starting now. The project’s final report will be submitted to the Legislature in December 2008. Project information and documents can be found here.

This spring and early summer project leaders will hold sessions with agricultural producers, food processors and other key industry stakeholders throughout the state. As sessions are scheduled, they will be listed here. For more information about the project or to see how you can participate, contact us at fof@agr.wa.gov or 360-902-7549