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focused on market development and diversification, and we collaborate with Oklahoma State University and the OSU Extension Service as often as we can to get information and educational tools to farmers and ranchers.
Q: What is your favorite part about your role?
A: It is hard to pick my favorite part of my role. I will focus on two areas. The first is that I believe there are several times when the team at ODAFF has truly found a solution that solved a problem for Oklahoma farmers and ranchers and implemented it quickly. Government can be criticized for moving too slowly but I am proud that there are times that we have moved as quickly as the government can to find solutions and implement them.
My second favorite part of my role is getting to interact with young leaders in agriculture in both the 4-H and FFA programs. Our young agriculture leaders are exceptional in so many ways. I know that these 4-H and FFA members will continue to lead Oklahoma agriculture in a positive direction and help feed, clothe and fuel the world.
Q: How critical is the need for sound agricultural practices in Oklahoma( and in Stillwater)?
A: Oklahoma is a very strong agriculture state, and we produce a variety of agriculture commodities. We lead in both livestock and crop production, and I believe there will be continued responsibility on Oklahoma agriculture producers and producers here in the United States to grow and produce more with less. We need to be as efficient as possible with our inputs while also ensuring that we protect and conserve our natural resources for future generations. The agricultural research that is happening at Oklahoma State University and Langston University is essential to help move agriculture forward as we bring new technology to farms and ranches across the state.
Q: What do you see as most promising in agriculture moving forward?
A: I believe the next generation of agriculture producers is more prepared than ever before to tackle the challenges of producing enough food, fuel and fiber for a growing world population. I think the next generation will bring new ideas, energy and technology to production agriculture.
The next generation is also well versed at connecting and communicating with consumers, which will continue to be important as consumers want to know more about production practices. I believe the next 10-15 years will be some of the most exciting and groundbreaking times for production agriculture that we have ever seen.
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STORY BY: JESSICA MARSHALL Stillwater Oklahoma Magazine
PHOTOS by KIRSTEN HOLLANSWORTH / OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND FORESTRY
Mon-Thu 11a-9:30p Fri 11a-10p Sat 11:30a-10p Sun 11:30a-9:30p
Secretary of Ag Blayne Arthur, left, with Champion Showman winners and Gov. Kevin Stitt at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur speaks at a 4-H Day at the Capitol event.
STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 20