JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Schuyler County has officially received Agri-Ready County Designation from Missouri Farmers Care (MFC). This designation highlights the county’s commitment to promoting agricultural development, boosting economic growth, and supporting educational initiatives that enhance agricultural literacy. MFC is a coalition of over 45 leading agricultural organizations with the mission to promote the continued growth of Missouri agriculture and rural communities through coordinated communication, education and advocacy.

“Becoming an Agri-Ready County is indeed a great step for Schuyler County, positioning it alongside other counties that are actively working to attract new opportunities,” said Missouri Corn Grower Engagement Manager Kevin Buckallew. “It sends a strong signal to potential business owners that Schuyler County is open, supportive, and prepared for agriculture or agribusiness ventures. It will create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and offer fresh prospects to secure the future of younger generations in the area. This opportunity will foster community growth, enhancing the county’s reputation as a place where businesses can thrive in a welcoming environment.”

By seeking this designation, the Schuyler County Commission has demonstrated its commitment to fostering a thriving environment for agriculture, Missouri’s largest industry. The Agri-Ready County Designation program identifies and promotes counties across the state that create policies and initiatives supportive of agricultural growth and sustainability.

“The Commission was approached by local producers about becoming Agri-Ready before we even knew what the Designation meant. We invited Ashley McCarty to give the presentation, and after we heard it, the decision was a no-brainer,” said Schuyler County Commissioner Drew Bruner. “Not only did the purpose of Missouri Farmers Care stand out, but their list of partners is second to none in the industry. Being a first generation, full-time farmer, I know how important it is to ensure that young and beginning farmers get all the help they can from the community and the industry. We are excited to see what the future holds for Schuyler County farmers and producers.”

Agri-Ready County Designation, in partnership with Missouri Farmers Care (MFC) and local leaders, aims to strengthen agricultural businesses, promote the county as an ideal location for business growth, and improve workforce readiness for careers in agriculture. Additionally, MFC collaborates with local FFA chapters to bring the Agriculture Education on the Move™ program into third-grade classrooms. This initiative equips student leaders to deliver ten hours of interactive lessons on topics such as agricultural careers, crop science, and livestock production, all while honing their public speaking and leadership abilities through hands-on activities and educational experiences.

“We appreciate that Schuyler County leaders see the value in standing with agriculture through Agri-Ready Designation,” said Missouri Farmers Care Executive Director Ashley McCarty. “This designation provides momentum supporting growth and opportunity for Schuyler County agriculture.”

Schuyler County’s agriculture industry generated $44.1 million in economic output according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) 2021 Economic Contribution Study of Missouri Agriculture and Forestry. Key drivers of this economic activity include cattle, oilseeds, hogs and other livestock. Together, the agriculture, food, and forestry sectors have created 516 local jobs, contributing $21.2 million in household income to area families.

“Agri-Ready Designation is an opportunity to promote agriculture in our county and promote our county to the rest of the state,” said Adrian Starbuck, Schuyler County farmer and Adair/Schuyler County Farm Bureau board member. “The opportunity to bring Ag Education on the Move™ to our local schools will build the agricultural literacy of local students and help them understand all the ways agriculture impacts their lives.”

Counties interested in applying for Agri-Ready County Designation must meet program requirements, such as ensuring no local ordinances conflict with state agricultural laws and demonstrating support for agricultural stewardship, growth, and opportunities. Once the county commission submits an application, compliance is confirmed with the program’s guidelines before publicly granting the designation.

With their designation, Schuyler County becomes the 76th Agri-Ready Designated Missouri county. More information about the program and Missouri Farmers Care can be found at www.mofarmerscare.com.