Bonham – Despite encountering historic natural disasters, including the epic Texas drought, American agriculture posted a record high $136.3 billion in exports last year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
“Last year, farmers and ranchers battled a ton of obstacles, especially here in Texas. Even with those challenges, American agriculture remains a bright spot in an otherwise bleak economy,” said Jerry Magness, president of Fannin County Farm Bureau.
Strong exports, coupled with domestic demand, have strengthened the agriculture sector and boosted American jobs. The USDA estimates that every $1 billion in exports produces 8,400 American jobs. Based on this statistic, American agriculture exports supported more than one million American jobs last year.
In 2011, agriculture exports in nearly every commodity category increased, including grains, cotton, dairy and pork. U.S. beef exports also reached an all-time high with $5.4 billion in beef and beef product sales.
“Record agriculture exports reflect the confidence other countries have in our products and the strong demand for quality, American-grown food and fiber,” Magness said. “That’s something our farmers and ranchers—and all Americans—can be proud of.”
