Alaska Agriculture Day
April 27, 2007
Source: Office of the Governor
Agriculture is the foundation of every civilization and was integral in the settlement of Alaska. From the Russian trading posts of the early 1800’s to the Matanuska Colony of the 1930’s, farmers and livestock producers have been at the forefront of frontier expansion.
Today Alaska’s agricultural industry adds more than $32 million to the state’s economy. As consumers begin to demand more information about food quality and safety, our Alaska Grown producers will benefit from being the only “local” source of food.
Alaska farmers provide fresh, quality products to Alaskans, who otherwise must rely entirely on imported products. Alaska’s long-term food security is in direct proportion to the percentage of its food supply that is locally grown.
The need for agricultural literacy has increased as the number of people living on farms has decreased. Agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis, yet few people recognize the contributions of our farmers.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sarah Palin, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2007, as:
Alaska Agriculture Day
in Alaska, and ask that all citizens recognize the contributions of Alaska’s farmers and producers. I encourage all Alaskans to support our farmers by seeking out and buying Alaska Grown products. Alaska Agriculture Day should be marked by celebratory events, projects, and activities aimed at all ages to increase their awareness and appreciation of Alaska agriculture.
Dated: April 27, 2007
