Foreword
The Iowa AgState group was formed in 1997. The idea was to pull together key leaders from all segments of Iowa agriculture to develop a proactive, futuristic vision for Iowa agriculture, and an action plan to help make that vision a reality.
The group's 1997 report was titled “Vision for Iowa Agriculture”. Goals and objectives were outlined. The group's 1998 report bore the same title. Successes were added to the list of goals and objectives.
In 1999, Iowa AgState again spent many hours looking to the future. One concept that surfaced repeatedly since the group's inception became clearer. The group shouldn't be creating just a Vision for Iowa Agriculture but rather a “Vision for Iowa”.
Iowa AgState recognizes that what benefits agriculture will benefit Iowa. And that what benefits Iowa as a whole will benefit the state's largest industry — agriculture.
After careful consideration of three possible scenarios, the group this year adopted a “Vision for Iowa” which outlines what the state will look like in 2010.
This “Vision for Iowa” begins on page 4 of this report. Beginning on page 9, you'll find a report on making Iowa the world's food capital that was presented to Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack on July 9.
I appreciate the time individual members of Iowa AgState have spent since its beginning in 1997 to find ways to help Iowa agriculture reach its potential. It has truly been an honor to work with each and every one of you.
Our hope is that you have found the information, concepts and ideas provided by the Iowa AgState group of benefit to your membership. Working together, we can make good things happen.
Craig Hill
Chair, Iowa AgSTATE Group