From the start, the United States has been an agrarian nation, dependent on its rich soil and diligent farmers to provide food and shelter. Many generations of Americans can trace their ancestry back to these farmers. But with advances in modern technology, the number of farmers producing their own food and timber diminished. Nevertheless, agriculture remains a strong and dominant force in Louisiana's economy.
Agriculture signifies big business and employment opportunities for Louisiana.
With about 80 percent of our 28 million acres dedicated to the production of food and fiber, the agricultural industry helps build our state's economy by providing shelter, food and clothing to all Louisianans. Specifically, our waterways, forests and fisheries are excellent resources of everyday necessities. Yet last year, many Louisiana farmers suffered a difficult season and considerable revenue losses. Many crops, including corn, soybeans, cotton, and hay encountered devastation from physical losses and depressed market prices. The Louisiana Agricultural Statistics Service reported that in 1998, feedstock corn, the bulk of Louisiana's corn production, was about 43.7 million bushels, down 35 percent from the previous year and hay production was 22.47 million bushels also down 43 percent from the previous year.