Printer Friendly
Email to a Friend
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) - U.S. Agricultural Secretary Tom Vilsack outlined strategies his department is implementing aimed at boosting rural economies.
Vilsack told about 470 people attending the National Farmer Union convention in Wichita Monday that agriculture today is 12 times more productive than in 1950 when he was born. That means fewer people on the farm, and the challenge is keeping people in rural communities.
Part of his department's rural strategy is using conservation efforts that create markets. Another is developing local and regional food systems where smaller-sized operators can be profitable by selling in farmers markets, to schools and other local markets. Another piece is developing rural manufacturing facilities such as bioprocessing plants that create good paying jobs.
EPA administrator Gina McCarthy also touted biofuels as a major economic engine for rural economies.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Atchison Walmart robbery sparks suspect search
Accused Atchison Walmart robber arrested Wed
Brown Co man involved in fatal central KS crash
Wrecked motorcyclist escapes serious injuries
Decision made on future of Atchison Co Lake
Rape among charges holding Holton man
Atchison's black business past set for renewal
Atchison woman injured in Shawnee Co crash
Two arrested after Jackson Co traffic stop
Suspect arrested in Jackson Co vehicle theft
Familiar name in local radio being remembered
Nemaha Co Attorney discusses retirement plans with commission
Jackson Co voters to face special question in November
Flags to fly in honor of fallen KS paramedic
HCC successfully concludes DOJ settlement agreement
Falls City Council moves forward with bonding for future electrical needs
Lancaster Fire gains firetruck
New 3-county extension district formation explored
LATEST STORIES
Presidential Disaster Declaration approved
Atchison woman injured in Shawnee Co crash
Public health advisory issued for Pony Creek Lake
Rape among charges holding Holton man
Memorial Day honors planned for Atchison Co vets
Local tribes awarded housing grants
Suspect arrested in Jackson Co vehicle theft
Familiar name in local radio being remembered
Hiawatha, Ks 66434