Douglas County, home to the City of Omaha, is Nebraska’s most urbanized county, but it has more agriculture-related jobs than any other of the state’s 93 counties.
The Greater Omaha Chamber celebrated National Agriculture Day yesterday, hosting a news conference with the Nebraska Farm Bureau, Conagra Brands and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. The purpose was to emphasize the role agriculture plays in the state’s economy.
Nebraska’s agricultural sector supports more than 244,000 jobs statewide and contributes $97.4 billion in sales output. The industry also generates over $6 billion in tax revenue, further cementing agriculture as a vital economic driver for the state.
“Nebraska’s agricultural industry continues to be a cornerstone of our economy, providing jobs, economic growth, and tax revenue for our communities,” said Mark McHargue, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation board of directors. “From small family farms to large agri-businesses, agriculture is integral to every corner of our state.”
Agriculture is responsible for more than 40 percent of jobs in 54 of Nebraska’s 93 counties, reflecting its far-reaching influence. Douglas County stands out as a major contributor, adding an impressive $3.9 billion in value to the local economy, which is $1 billion more than the next leading county. Lancaster County follows closely, contributing $1.4 billion. Douglas County also leads the state with more than 29,000 agriculture-related jobs, solidifying its role as Nebraska’s agricultural hub.
“Douglas County’s leadership in agricultural value and job creation highlights the sector’s impact not only in rural areas but also in urban centers,” said David Bracht, president of the Agriculture Council for the Greater Omaha Chamber. “Agriculture offers vast opportunities for Nebraskans, from production and processing to world-leading innovation.”
Agriculture is Nebraska’s driving industry impacting every community across Nebraska-rural and urban. Omaha is a hub for agribusiness creating career opportunities across the agriculture sector, according to the Greater Omaha Chamber.
“Omaha innovators have created a city where you can dig in the dirt or dive into data,” said Sherry Vinton, director of Nebraska Department of Agriculture. “Whether a gearhead, number cruncher, sustainability dreamer or a content creator, Nebraska agriculture has a place for you!”
Photo credit: Greater Omaha Chamber
