As Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the fair. Fairs are much more than rides and entertainment; they provide an opportunity to showcase Alabama agriculture. We all appreciate the harvest season and are grateful for another year to experience the tradition of attending our local fair.

Since the 1850’s, fairs have been held across our state to encourage young people as they participate in livestock competitions, showcase local gardeners’ handiwork and support the artistic talents of citizens by displaying their artwork. Even in our fast-paced world, the fair experience preserves the tradition of celebrating agriculture.

We are blessed to live in a state that has an abundance of natural resources and hard-working farmers. Market prices are uncertain for all Alabama farmers, but remember our farmers are constantly working to improve efficiency by embracing technology and innovations. Over the last 70 years, U.S. farms have nearly tripled production, while using roughly the same amount of land, energy and fertilizer. In fact, Alabama cotton farmers produce 160,000 more bales on a third of the acres and peanut farmers grow twice as many peanuts on half of the acres as compared to 1950. Farmers are efficient, dedicated stewards of the land and committed to feeding the world. The fair is a perfect venue to honor farmers for their contribution to our food supply and rural communities.

I hope you take the opportunity at the fair to visit the exhibits and learn about livestock, local foods and those who produce them. The employees of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries send their best wishes to those who play a part in making our county fairs successful each year. We appreciate your continued support for Alabama farmers, foresters and agribusinesses!