It is no secret that Lawrence County is largely rural, and agriculture is an important part of our way of life. Whether it’s food, ranging from vegetables to meat, dairy, tobacco or clothing from animal wool, each plays a vital role to residents throughout the county.

At their Tuesday meeting, the Lawrence County Commissioners proclaimed March 19 through March 25 to be National Ag week. This is a good step to highlight the efforts of the many who work hard each day to provide resources for things we use each day.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Center, agriculture and its related industries make up 10 percent of the employment in America and accounted for 5.7 percent of the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Making a declaration gives those farmers and our children who participate in one of the many 4-H groups in Lawrence County the recognition they deserve.

We appreciate each of those who work agriculture, many of whom are still family-owned and operated, to afford residents many products.

Agriculture is certainly an important piece of Lawrence County’s past, but equally as important to our bright future right here at home.