Gov. Bill Lee put on his cleanest jeans to celebrate Agriculture Day in downtown Nashville on March 19, 2024. He was joined by legislators, farmers, foresters, ag officials and others.
“Agriculture drives Tennessee’s economy and is crucial for our state’s continued success,” said Lee. “Today, we celebrate the hardworking Tennesseans who are committed to an industry that keeps our economy and communities strong.”
Charles Hatcher DVM
“It was a great occasion for the agricultural community to unite and spotlight Tennessee’s leading industry,” said Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, DVM. In Tennessee, ag-related industries employ 324,000 people and infuse $89 billion into the economy.
This year’s event highlighted wheat and small grains. State legislators and executive leaders competed in a straw-bale-throwing contest, with the state Senate emerging victorious, earning a commemorative bronzed bale hook and the right to boast about their win. The Farm and Forest Families of Tennessee organization presented a $1,000 check in honor of the straw bale toss contest winners to the Shooting Hunger Backpack program.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture provided information and quotes.