Growing up a little girl on our family orchard in Kettle Falls, I came to know and appreciate the tremendous contributions of Eastern Washington’s agriculture communities at an early age. From hard work to community and selflessness, the agriculture community embodies the values that make up the American spirit, and it inspires me every day. 

Our farmers and ranchers are truly the backbone of Eastern Washington’s economy. They work so hard to preserve our region’s legacy as one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world, providing food security to people across America and in countries around the globe. 

At the end of the day, when I think about Eastern Washington’s farmers, I think about the best of America, and it  always fills me with hope. To every farmer and rancher in Eastern Washington who makes our legacy possible every single day, thank you and happy National Agriculture Day!