Week 2001 Agriculture remains a major industry but faces increasing challenges to viability Oregon celebrates National Ag Week March 14, 2001. . . U.S. consumers, including more than three million in Oregon, are being asked to observe the contributions and appreciate the challenges facing farmers and ranchers as National Agriculture Week is observed March 18-24 across the nation. While normally a time of celebration for the industry, economic and environmental uncertainties make this year's observance a bit more circumspect than those in the recent past. There are many reasons to thank agriculture in Oregon for its contributions to the lives of the state's population. Many Oregon businesses rely on agriculture, especially in rural areas.
Associated jobs are a key part of the rural infrastructure.
A majority of Oregon farms continues to be family owned. Oregon boasts more than 225 different agricultural commodities, making it one of the most diverse ag states in the nation. Bridges continue to be built between rural and urban Oregon through agriculture. More farmer's markets than ever are flourishing all over the state. Ag producers manage 17.5 million acres of private property in Oregon, contributing substantially to wildlife habitat.