North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong emphasized the state’s critical role in agriculture during a media briefing on Tuesday, stating that the state contributes far more to the nation than it receives from Washington, D.C. “We don’t need a lot from Washington, D.C.,” said Armstrong. “Quite frankly, most of what D.C. gives us is problems, but what we give them is pretty important.” Armstrong pointed to North Dakota’s production of crops, beef, energy, and renewable fuels as key to the national and global economy. NDSU Vice President of Agricultural Affairs Greg Lardy reinforced the economic importance of agriculture in the state. “We are generating $41.3 billion in gross business volume with the agriculture industry across the state of North Dakota,” Lardy said. With agriculture accounting for 25 percent of the state’s total business volume and supporting $10 billion in wages, Lardy emphasized that the industry remains a cornerstone of North Dakota’s economy and workforce.
