Missouri is one of the leading states in the number of independent farmers. With over 98,800 farms in Missouri, something has to be done to offer a fair market in which these farmers can compete. Currently, corporate farms are dwindling the competition to a bare minimum, while pushing out family farmers. Cooperation is the answer. If independent farmers can combine forces and resources, they can maintain a position in the market.
New technology offers a wealth of opportunities for Missouri farmers.
These new technologies need to be directed in such a way as to benefit both large, corporate agricultural companies, as well as to the small independent agriculturists. We need to work to insure that these new technologies are thoroughly researched and that the consumers are fully educated on their benefits. There are endless possibilities connected to agricultural technology, but it requires the attention is deserves. Value-added products now, open new doors for Missouri farmers. Value-added is not merely an alternative, but is a means of diversification.