Investing in the competitiveness of Washington agriculture: Washington State Agricultural Viability Conference
Last week, WSDA partnered with the Washington State University College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (WSU CAHNRS) to hold a first-of-its-kind Washington State Agricultural Viability Conference. The two-day event centered around the viability of Washington agriculture, and featured a host of panels and speakers, including Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, Congressman Dan Newhouse, and WSDA Director Derek Sandison.
Agriculture’s changing landscape
Agriculture contributed $12.8 billion to Washington’s economy in 2022. Because of our geographical location, we’re also a gateway to the Pacific with over $20 billion worth of agricultural exports, including products grown outside Washington passing through our ports. Because of our rich soil and temperate climate, we can grow over 300 crops and commodities, the second largest crop portfolio in the nation.
However, the landscape of farming is changing. Since 2017, Washington has lost 3,717 farms and roughly 1 million acres of agriculturally dedicated land. That’s a 5.6% decrease in farmland in our state.
For years, industry experts have been calling attention to the difficulties in farming — fluctuating prices, rising costs, water availability, labor shortages, regulatory burdens, and the constant interference of weather, pests, and disease. Industry supporters, agricultural businesses, and policy makers came together to discuss these challenges and how to use them as opportunities for our industry.
A state-wide focus on agriculture
The first day of the conference kicked off with a short session catered to the competitiveness and viability of new and beginning farmers. Fifteen panelists offered insight into grant programs, the importance of connecting with your local Farm Bureau and commodity commissions, and how to access technical assistance.
The second day of the conference was packed with engaging panel discussions and featured thought-provoking keynote speeches from Association of Washington Business (AWB) President and CEO Kris Johnson and Lt. Gov. Denny Heck.
The conference concluded with a fireside chat with Congressman Dan Newhouse, a steadfast advocate for farmers and rural communities. In a candid conversation, Congressman Newhouse shared his perspective on key legislative priorities affecting agriculture, including the Farm Bill, immigration reform, and trade policies. He emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation in addressing the challenges facing the agricultural sector and reiterated his commitment to supporting policies that promote agricultural innovation and sustainability.
Ensuring strong and resilient agriculture in Washington
The Agricultural Viability Conference offered valuable knowledge and fostered meaningful connections among participants, while discussions and presentations underscored the critical role that collaboration, innovation, and policy advocacy play in ensuring the future success of the agricultural industry.The conference also confirmed that by addressing the immediate challenges and investing in long-term solutions, we can ensure that our state’s agricultural industry remains strong and resilient.