Missouri Department of Agriculture held a press conference on the opening day of the Missouri State Fair about the launch of their Agriculture Stewardship Assurance Program (ASAP). The program goals are to encourage sustainable agricultural practices throughout the state, increase consumer confidence in Missouri agriculture and provide global marketing opportunities for the state’s producers.

ASAP is a verification program that champions Missouri farmers who are responsible stewards of the land. It’s meant to acknowledge and reward those who proactively protect the environment, employ sound management practices and use science-based technology to produce safe food, fuel and fiber for consumers.

I spoke with the Missouri Director of Agriculture, Richard Fordyce, to learn more about how producers throughout the state can get involved and how the program puts them on a more competitive playing field. “It’s a great opportunity to communicate to our trading partners and consumers about what we are doing. They will literally jump with joy that we are doing this. We are very positive that this is going to be a really good thing for Missouri.”

Learn more about Missouri’s efforts to highlight how their farmers and ranchers are producing sustainable and responsible products at www.asap.farm and in my complete interview with Richard. Interview with Richard Fordyce, Missouri Department of Agriculture