On May 15, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation to create the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which he called “The People’s Department.” At the time, nearly half of all Americans lived on farms, compared with only about 2 percent today. However, agriculture continues to be a cornerstone of our American heritage and a major driving force in our economy, with more than 2.2 billion acres of farmland across the United States and one in twelve jobs linked to agriculture or forestry.
One hundred and fifty years later, the USDA remains a department of the people. The department’s work on a broad range of issues – from international trade and economic development, next generation energy development and technological innovation, natural resource conservation and recreation, food safety and nutrition, to research and science – touches nearly every aspect of American life.
Agriculture is a vital force in Delaware’s economy and remains an integral part of our community. In 2008, agriculture in Delaware contributed nearly $8 billion to the economy and supported roughly 30,000 jobs. Sussex County, the birthplace of the modern poultry industry, produces more chickens than any other county in the United States. Delaware also has the highest percentage of preserved, productive farmland of any state in the nation. In addition, the University of Delaware, which was designated as one of the nation’s historic Land Grant colleges in 1867, is conducting cutting edge research, providing critical services, and participating in vital partnerships with Delaware’s agriculture sector.
Senator Coons congratulates the USDA on a fantastic first 150 years and looks forward to continuing to work together to address our nation’s agricultural challenges.