In order for agriculture to be successful in New Jersey, it must be economically viable. The diversity of New Jersey’s agricultural products, coupled with the state’s close proximity to major markets, creates a foundation for continued success for New Jersey’s third largest industry. The Department of Agriculture, working cooperatively with Rutgers University Cook College and the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, along with New Jersey farmers and consumers, must look ahead for new and emerging markets as well as alternative uses for products already grown in the state. The Department must research and create new strategies to assist farmers in identifying new trends, tap emerging markets, and offer new products to consumers. The Department’s economic development strategies, which are part of the Department’s Smart Growth Plan, will support existing sectors as well as encourage emerging sectors of the agricultural industry.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, we the delegates to the 90th State Agricultural Convention assembled in Atlantic City, New Jersey on January 24-26, 2005 support the Department of Agriculture working with industry groups and other representatives to develop economic growth strategies for New Jersey’s agricultural industries. The Department should initiate a variety of strategies for the economic development of the Produce, Horticultural, Seafood, Dairy, Field Crops, Livestock and Poultry, Organic, Equine, Wine and Agricultural Tourism industries.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Department of Agriculture, Rutgers Cook College and the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, the United States Department of Agriculture, industry groups and producers work to identify and assist in developing new market and value-added opportunities for New Jersey farmers.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we support participation in the Jersey Fresh, Jersey Grown, Jersey Bred and other NJDA-sponsored grading and promotion programs to ensure high quality standards and build consumer loyalty to New Jersey products.