The State of Washington competes only with the State of California for the title of the most diverse agricultural state in the nation. Washington produces 90 different crops and leads the nation in 11 of those. Food processing has recently become the state's second largest employer.
Agriculture is Washington's largest industry.
Because agriculture helps maintain our rural areas, the general public is afforded both scenic and recreational benefit. When the impacts of certain agricultural activities or policies begin to conflict with other values, questions and issues arise. Both agricultural and the non-farming public have a mutual interest in the protection of our natural resources. The Governor shall select the chair. The primary support for the Council shall be provided by the Department of Agriculture in cooperation with the numerous other state agencies who may be involved with any of the issues.