Shelby County’s Agricultural Roots and Economic Future Recognized with Agri-Ready County Designation
JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Shelby County, Missouri has officially earned Agri-Ready County Designation from Missouri Farmers Care, an achievement that highlights the county’s commitment to support agriculture, encourage economic growth, and strengthen agricultural education.
“Agriculture is the heartbeat of northern Missouri,” said Ashley McCarty, Executive Director of Missouri Farmers Care. “Shelby County’s designation reflects the dedication of local leaders to growing agriculture and helping build future opportunities. We’re proud to partner with them and support local efforts.”
The designation recognizes Shelby County’s proactive approach to fostering an environment where agriculture can thrive. With this recognition, the county joins others across Missouri that are prioritizing agriculture as a foundation for long-term community and economic success.
“As the Director for Economic Development for Shelby County, I know how vital all facets of agriculture are to a thriving economy in this county," said Lisa Skelton. "This designation will open doors to new opportunities and future growth for Shelby County. I'm so excited that the county has earned this important designation, and I'm thrilled that it has been made official. I would like to thank the Shelby County Commission for understanding the importance of this designation to the county and helping to ensure that it was able to happen.”
“As a 5th generation farmer in Shelby County, I am excited to see my home county join the Agri-Ready program,” said Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. “Agriculture is the foundation of Shelby County and I appreciate the county commissioners for partnering with Missouri Farmers Care to encourage growth and provide continued opportunities for the agriculture industry. This designation shows that Shelby County is ready for agriculture business development and expansion.”
Shelby County is driven by agriculture with 42 percent of the county's economic activities derived from agriculture, forestry, and related industries. With $311 million in output, agriculture provides 1,376 jobs and $83.4 million in household income. Value-added agriculture contributes $101 million through grain processing, oilseeds, and hogs and other livestock, according to the 2021 Missouri Department of Agriculture's Missouri Economic Contribution of Agriculture and Forestry Study.
“Agriculture is the biggest industry in Shelby County and Agri-Ready Designation is a great thing for the county and agriculture in general," said State Representative Greg Sharpe (R-Ewing). "I'm proud of the leadership of the Shelby County Commission in pursuing and achieving Agri-Ready County Designation.”
Through Agri-Ready County Designation, MFC partners with county leaders to advance local agricultural enterprise, promote the county as a prime location for business expansion. In addition, MFC partners with local FFA leaders to implement Agriculture Education on the Move™ in third-grade classrooms. Through the partnership, student leaders will present ten hours of education on agricultural careers, crop science, livestock production and more through engaging, hands-on activities and lessons while developing their speaking and leadership skills.
"As Western Commissioner, I know how vital agriculture is to Shelby County," said Terry Mefford, Shelby County Western District Commissioner. "If we can support and promote agriculture, we will not only work with agriculture, but give them a tool to help make us stronger and attractive to ag businesses."
Missouri Farmers Care is a coalition of more than 45 agricultural organizations that work together to promote Missouri agriculture through collaboration, advocacy, and education. The Agri-Ready County Designation program supports counties that are committed to agricultural development and the implementation of pro-agriculture policies.
Shelby County is now the 78th county in Missouri to receive the Agri-Ready County Designation. To learn more about the program and Missouri Farmers Care, visit www.mofarmerscare.com.
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