‘Indiana Grown’ Gains Support

A new law aims to raise the profile of the state's agricultural sector. The measure establishes a commission within the Indiana State Department of Agriculture to develop marketing, branding and promotions strategies for the Indiana Grown Initiative. ISDA Director Ted McKinney says the program will be a “signature” way to help take agribusiness to new heights. He envisions the initiative helping farmers, artisans and retailers in the state add value to everything from fruits and vegetables to agritourism. The initiative has been around on a much smaller scale for years.

McKinney says the definition of “Indiana Grown” could potentially extend to products that are grown elsewhere, but finished and branded in the state.

He says the commission will be formed shortly and will have time before the next legislative session to determine their plans for moving forward.

McKinney says modern production methods, more efficient technology and the cultural movement toward more locally-produced foods will all factor into the direction the initiative will take.

You can view a full version of the legislation by clicking here.

Source: Inside INdiana Business