WASHINGTON — In recognition of National Agriculture Day, a day for all to express appreciation for American agriculture and American farmers who provide feed, food and fuel to consumers across the globe, Bob Dinneen, CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, issued the following statement: "While much of the economy is doing well, farmers are struggling with chronically low commodity prices and rising input costs, yet still continue to provide food, feed and fuel to a growing world. Farmers are the backbone of this country and our industry. We are proud to stand side by side with American agriculture and the American farmer. "American farmers are the foundation for the renewable fuels industry, producing a robust sustainable feedstock used to create clean, green, homegrown biofuels. Our industry is proud to contribute to the success of rural communities. In fact, ethanol production under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) has provided a $14.1 billion boost in value of the U.S. farm sector in 2015 or $6800 per American farm. In addition, the biofuels industry supported nearly 360,000 jobs last year and displaced a substantial amount of imported crude oil, bringing high-paying jobs to rural communities across the nation. We look forward to continuing our work together to promote this important value-added market. "We cannot overstate the importance of American agriculture on this day or any other. Today, we are proud to salute the American farmer and recognize their contributions to this nation." National Agriculture Day, which was started in 1973 by the Agriculture Council of America, is celebrated annually. This year's theme for the National Ag Day program is Agriculture: Food for Life.
