Missouri’s Agriculture industry is ranking in the top five in several areas and showing improvement over a study from five years prior.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture announced the results of an economic contribution study showing the value of agriculture, forestry and related industries to the state’s economy. Results show a contribution of nearly $94 billion to the state’s economy and more than one in every 10 jobs is supported by agriculture.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson says. “The results of this study show how impactful agriculture is for families and communities in every corner of the state. From rice and cotton in the bootheel to corn and cattle in the north, the diversity of our producers is highlighted in the fact that Missouri ranks among the top 10 states for 14 different commodities. Agriculture benefits every Missourian, and we are so fortunate to be part of the Missouri farming community.”
Compared to the previous study conducted in 2016, the economic contribution of agriculture, forestry and related industries in Missouri increased significantly. Key findings show:
- Output contribution is $93.7 billion, an increase of $5.3 billion
- Jobs contribution is 456,618, an increase of 78,386
- Value-added contribution is $34.9 billion, an increase of $1.9 billion
Missouri Agriculture Director Chris Chinn said “I am so proud to see the contributions of Missouri farms and ranches recognized through the results of this independent study.”
Missouri is ranked among the top five states in the nation for:
- Number of farms – 95,000 (second)
- Hay production – 6.4 million tons (second)
- Beef cows – 2.04 million head (third)
- Rice production – 15.5 million cwt (fourth)
- Goats – 75,000 head (fifth)
Crop production (grains and oilseeds) ranks first in value of sales, followed by cattle and calves, poultry and eggs, hogs and pigs, and cotton.
