Agricultural Issues Forum Held In Smithfield

Nearly 100 people attended an Agricultural Issues Forum on Friday at the Johnston County Agricultural Center in Smithfield . The Business of Farming: 21st Century Challenges and Opportunities forum featured a number of speakers, including Congressman Bob Etheridge, NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler, County Commissioners Cookie Pope, Wade Stewart, and Ray Woodall. Commissioner Chairwoman Pope said, “ Johnston County is proud of its farm community and the contributions made by those associated with agriculture and/or agribusiness. This business called ‘farming’ has supported families throughout the generations and continues to be the number one income producer for the State of North Carolina .” The forum was held to discuss ways for the dwindling numbers of farmers to make a profit. New housing developments are now being built where tobacco and other products once grew. The forum also discussed bio-fuels, agribusiness and agritourism. Pope who also serves on the NC Association of County Commissioners Agriculture Steering Committee added, “Serving on this committee gives me, an old farm girl, an opportunity to voice my opinion and to stay abreast of the opportunities and possibilities for farm families.”