<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4KSfnZ_0vjfBnpK00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4KSfnZ_0vjfBnpK00" width="1320" height="743" >LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — During an annual organizational meeting, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward has been elected to serve as President of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).Announced on September 25, Ward is the first Arkansas Secretary of State to serve as president."If a country can't feed itself, fuel itself, or fight for itself, then it can't survive," said Governor Sanders."I am thrilled we will serve in this capacity throughout the upcoming year and extend my invitation to the 2025 NASDA Conference, right here in Arkansas. Arkansas farms aren't just a part of our economy - they're part of the Arkansas way of life."Ward has served several leadership roles in NASDA, including Chairman of the Natural Resources and Environmental Committee, and former President of the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture, according to a press release.Agriculture in the Natural State contributes over $24.3 billion to the state's economy annually, providing one in every seven jobs.The state ranks in the top 25 nationwide, in the production of over a dozen different commodities, in part due to its large-scale industry."It's an honor to represent Arkansas within NASDA and to have the opportunity to work with leaders throughout the United States to continue to strenghthen and grow our agriculture industry," said Secretary Ward."Our theme for the next year is 'Securing our Future through Agriculture' because, just like Governor Sanders has said, agriculture is national security and critical to the freedoms that we hold dear. We're excited to highlight the strength of our state's agriculture industry throughout this upcoming year."NASDA represents elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries, and directors of the departments of agriculture in all 50 states and four U.S. territories.It strives to improve American food, and agricultural living areas through joint policy partnerships, and community engagement.For more information, about NASDA, visit here.</div></body>

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NewsBreak

National Association of State Departments of Agriculture elects new president

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — During an annual organizational meeting, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward has been elected to serve as President of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA). Announced on September 25, Ward is the first Arkansas Secretary of State to serve as president. \"If...

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — During an annual organizational meeting, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward has been elected to serve as President of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA). Announced on September 25, Ward is the first Arkansas Secretary of State to serve as president. "If...