Heather Slayton, State Forester and Assistant Commissioner for Forestry | Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Heather Slayton, State Forester and Assistant Commissioner for Forestry | Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Tennessee's annual Ag Day on the Hill was celebrated today at the State Capitol in Nashville. Governor Bill Lee, alongside industry leaders, lawmakers, agricultural students, and community supporters, emphasized the collaboration within Tennessee's agricultural sector focused on advancing farming and forestry.
Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher stated, "Agriculture and forestry are Tennessee's number one industry, driving not only our economy but also our way of life." He added that Ag Day on the Hill provides an opportunity to celebrate the work done by farmers and forest landowners and highlights the importance of empowering youth for future contributions.
A corn shelling contest featured state legislators, judicial members, and executive leadership. The team of Governor Bill Lee, Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, and Deputy Commissioner Andy Holt emerged victorious. They received a commemorative award and bragging rights. The Farm and Forest Families of Tennessee organization honored them with a $1,000 check for the Shooting Hunger Backpack program.
Participants enjoyed food prepared by Tennessee FFA and 4-H members. The Dairy Alliance provided milk from Middle Tennessee State University.
The agriculture and forestry sectors contribute over $81 billion annually to Tennessee's economy, employing hundreds of thousands of residents. Ag Day on the Hill is an annual event recognizing their impact on the state's economy and future.
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