DENVER, COLO., — Thursday, Governor Jared Polis address Coloradans during his State of the State address in the House of Representatives chambers at the state capitol building.

During his address, Governor Polis highlighted the importance of Colorado’s great farming and ranching tradition. He acknowledged the struggles the agriculture community faces including low commodity prices, trade war impacts and the state’s water shortage.

”Today’s farmers and ranchers, and tomorrow’s, must have the tools to succeed” said Polis in his address before introducing his nominee for the Department of Agriculture, Kate Greenburg. Greenburg will be the first woman to serve as the Commissioner of Agriculture in the state and Polis touted her plan to look towards the future of agriculture.

“While it is important to look towards the future of agriculture, it’s vital not to forget the lessons the past has taught us,” said Colorado Farm Bureau president Don Shawcroft in response to the State of the State address. “Support of all farmers and ranchers across the state is key, whether they are big or small, organic or conventional, young or old.”

The state has quadrupled it’s exports over the last few decades, praised the Governor, a task which wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Colorado’s diverse agriculture industry.

Polis also committed to funding and implementing the Colorado Water Plan, welcome words to Colorado farmers and ranchers.

“Agriculture is most profitable and most productive when farmers and ranchers have access to the water resources they need. Those resources can’t be tied up on the front range,” said Shawcroft. “Colorado Farm Bureau has long supported policies that utilize water in ways that support agriculture across the state and will continue to do so in the future.”

Another agricultural priority for the Governor includes supporting Colorado hemp farmers and expanding the industry. The Colorado Farm Bureau looks forward to working with the Governor and the Colorado Department of Agriculture to support help production and boost local economies.

“We look forward to working with Governor Polis, his team and other policy leaders around the state,” continued Shawcroft. “As one of Colorado’s largest economies, it’s paramount that we continue to create policies and an environment where farm and ranch families can thrive.”

Also during his address, Governor Polis shared other priorities including implementing tax reform, lowering the price of healthcare, and providing high-quality education so that Coloradans from all across the state can thrive.

Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)