Survey shows near unanimous support for agriculture

Nearly all Coloradans want to support the state’s agricultural industry, according to a new public opinion survey conducted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture and Colorado State University. The survey shows 98 percent of respondents agreed that Colorado’s food and ag industry is important to the state’s future economic development; that the presence of ranches, farms, and agriculture is important to the quality of life in Colorado; and that it is important to maintain land and water in Colorado for agricultural purposes.

Beginning in 1996, and approximately every five years since, the Department of Agriculture and Colorado State University have partnered to conduct the Public Attitudes About Colorado Agriculture survey. This year’s findings found public support for Colorado’s agriculture industry continues to be exceptionally strong.

“This survey shows Coloradans want to buy local products and that they care about where their food comes from. This is an incredible opportunity for Colorado agriculture to showcase the diversity of production, and people who grow and raise our food and to highlight Colorado ag’s commitment to soil, water and climate stewardship and economic resilience,” said Colorado Agriculture Commissioner Kate Greenberg. “Favorable public attitude toward agriculture is crucial to the longer-term sustainability of Colorado’s food and ag industry, and consumer awareness will help us build new local and regional markets for Colorado producers looking to reach their neighbors.”

According to the survey, more than 90 percent of Coloradans put agriculture in their top three most important ways Colorado can use its water, and 98 percent believe Colorado’s land and water resources should be used to support efforts to increase food security.

The full article is available in our e-Edition. Click here to subscribe.