MARION, Ill (WSIL) -- The annual Agriculture Advisory Committee met Tuesday in Marion. Agriculture is one of Illinois's biggest economic drivers. Officials say it brings in close to 20 billion dollars every year. FFA students and local farmers attended Tuesday's event. Organizers say it's important to highlight that agriculture is constantly changing, they want to pass on their knowledge to the next generation.
"To have the opportunity to bring the students in, to bring farmers in throughout Southern Illinois. We had students as far as Nashville Illinois that came here. That's quite a statement that they take their time and know the importance of being able to have the opportunity to hear from the Department of Agriculture and to hear his story and his passion for Agriculture." said Sen. Dale Fowler, 59th District of Illinois.
Illinois Agriculture Director Jerry Costello says the state's agriculture is important for the entire U.S. Illinois is the leading producer of soybeans and pumpkins. And It's number two for corn production.
