- Oklahoma Forestry Conducting Forestry Inventory In Five Counties
- New Blog Site Launched
- Horse Disease Could Affect Oklahoma Breeders
- Locally Grown Firewood Beneficial to Environment and Forest Health
- $7500 Reward Offered for Cow Killer
- Oklahoma Trade Mission Returns From Cuba
- Oklahoma Agriculture Hall of Fame Nominations Sought
- Detailed Presentation of CAFO Permit Program, NPDES Final Rules
- EPA Rule Fact Sheet, EPA Final CAFO Rule, Changes Only
But Oklahoma agriculture in the 21st century is much more than beef and wheat. Crops and livestock that were once relatively small in terms of production have grown dramatically in recent years. For example, poultry and swine, respectively, are our second and third largest agricultural industries and Oklahoma is now one of the top states in their production.
From the arid High Plains of the panhandle to the forests of southeastern Oklahoma, there aren't many North American crops not grown in our state. Fields of wheat and corn are next-door neighbors to vineyards and organically grown specialty crops. And while many people continue to view Oklahoma as one of the Plains States, we have over 6 million acres of commercial timber production, which contributes over $1.5 billion to our economy each year.
Agriculture has changed to meet demand and the realities of modern economics but farmers markets and marketing cooperatives still let consumers meet the folks who grow their food face-to-face. The future of agriculture will require a new vision as we face evolving technologies and demands. The role agriculture plays is ever changing in the areas of production and environmental demands. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is excited about these challenges and are addressing them with zeal and enthusiasm.
Terry L. Peach,
Commissioner of Agriculture