Ag census ranks Vernon County 10th in state

During a Nevada/ Vernon County Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon Friday, June 19 at the Nevada Country Club, Wayne Prewitt of the university extension office announced that "right now we are the number 10th county in the state of Missouri for agriculture." Prewitt said that Vernon County agriculture produces more than $129 million annually. About 30 percent of that is crop sales and the rest is from livestock, according to the recently-released 2007 ag census.

Prewitt said some calls from the Agriculture Department reported that the sales numbers and production numbers for the county were amazing. He explained how agriculture is a base industry and how "when base industries do well the multiplier effect is huge." Explaining the multiplier effect for crop sales, he said that every dollar of crop production generates two and a half dollars for the local economy. The multiplier effect is even higher for livestock and dairy production.

Prewitt specifically mentioned the Prairie Pride facility and how the jobs the plant created and the higher price they pay for beans had impacted local soybean producers and residents. He also made note of the county's pecan processing facility which generated local jobs and allows production, processing, packaging and shipping to be done right here in the county. "All that means a big impact on the local economy," Prewitt said.

All of this, Prewitt said, brings Vernon County to the attention of potential investors. He said that he was fond of things that bring a lot of value to the area and things that have a large multiplier.

On a more somber note, Prewitt said that the county had a net migration over the five year census period of almost 800 people. That's how many fewer people are in the county than there were the last time the census was conducted. He said he wanted his children to be able to decide if they didn't want to stay in the area, not be forced to make a choice because of a lack of economic opportunities. He said, "it's very important that we create opportunities for our kids." Prewitt ended his presentation on a positive note saying, "I think it's awesome, agriculture's doing great in Vernon County."

State Rep. Barney J. Fisher addressed the crowd as well.

Fisher concentrated on informing members about the legislation that had been sent to the governor in the last session, specifically mentioning Bill 22 which pertains to "how the state will handle the federal money coming into the state." The $1.2 billion will come in two chunks, according to Fisher.

Fisher went on to say that "by comparison to other states we're doing very well." He added that education had been fully funded and the extension service was not cut and the sheltered workshop was not cut. He also said that a major economic bill was passed the last day. "Things need to turn around and that's what we're trying to do," The governor has 45 days to sign or veto the legislation; after that time, it automatically becomes law.

Steve Russ of the First Baptist Church presented information on an upcoming leadership summit. The summit, slated for Aug. 14-15 will be held at the First Baptist Church via satellite.

Russ stressed how this event held something of interest for any one in a leadership position. He said, leadership is leadership whether you are in a business, community or church setting." Leadership strategies, problems and challenges in a number of fields will be examined over the course of the weekend.

Russ has attended this event in the past and said, "every time I've gone I've come away changed inspired, challenged. The summit will feature discussion or presentation of information by some well know people. There will be "a lot of heavy hitters, a lot of world class leaders, a lot of experience. There's a lot to be learned," Russ said.

Among the personalities taking part are no less than the former Prime Minister of Great Britain Tony Blair. Musician and activist Bono will also address an issue. Presidential advisor David Gergen will also take part in one of the nine individual sessions. In closing Russ said, "we're real excited that we can be a part of offering it to the community."