For the first time in our nation’s history, the United States imported more food products by value than it exported in 2006. Food increasingly comes from distant, sometimes unsafe sources. The average foodstuff travels over 1,500 miles to its destination.
–American Planning Association, January 2008.
Yet, by the year 2030, China will demand more food alone than is produced in the entire world today. Indeed, food is a limited and potentially priceless commodity that is essential to human survival.
–American Planning Association, January 2008.
Fayette County agriculture is a “new economy” opportunity– as our local community, the Bluegrass Region and the world need food, and more efficient food production techniques.
The inner Bluegrass Region has some of the world’s most fertile farmland, and is located in a relatively temperate climate. In addition, Lexington is located within a day’s travel of 70% of the U.S. population. As such, Fayette County farms can produce a wide-variety of marketable agricultural products.
–Commerce Lexington, 2008.
–Fayette Co. Farm Bureau, 2008.
Wine, locally produced organic foods, and fuel industries are growing in the inner Bluegrass Region. These industries are crucial to our national security, food safety, sustainability, and economic development.
In fact, many experts believe that Kentucky’s greatest potential may come in alternative fuel technology and production—from switchgrass ethanol manufacturing to hydroelectric power. These are powerful market ideas, considering that oil production is peaking, and world demand is expected to increase 50% by 2030.
–The Lane Report, November 2008.
–American Planning Association, January 2008.
Fayette County agriculture has a significant role to play in today’s world, as natural resources become scarce and need increases.
