John Deere Partners with Ag Council to Celebrate American Agriculture

Annual Ag Day Recognizes Agriculture’s Role in Building a Stronger U.S. Economy

LENEXA, Kansas.— John Deere announces that it is partnering with the Agriculture Council of America (ACA) and other industry partners to sponsor National Ag Day, celebrated annually on the first day of spring, which is March 20th this year.

According to Barry Nelson, manager of media and channel relations for John Deere, Ag Day was created to recognize—and celebrate—the contributions of agriculture to improving the everyday lives of people across the country. During National Ag Week, March 15-21, 2009, activities are held across the nation to educate all Americans, particularly young people, of the important role American farmers and ranchers play in providing an abundant, safe, and affordable supply of food, fuel and fiber.

"Today more than ever, agriculture plays an important role in the U.S. economy by providing millions of jobs, improving our balance of trade and reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources" Nelson says. "As a long-time leader in agricultural innovation and technology, John Deere has supported the National Ag Day program for 15 years and we are proud to help promote the many good things farmers and ranchers provide"

According to the ACA, the National Ag Day program encourages every American to:

* Understand how food and fiber products are produced.
* Appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products.
* Value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy.
* Acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food and fiber industry.

In addition to public service announcements and other educational programs, the ACA, John Deere, and other industry partners will host two major events in the nation’s Capitol: the Mix-and-Mingle Luncheon and the National Celebration of Agriculture Dinner. These high-profile events will be held in Washington, D.C., Thursday, March 12, 2009, to highlight agriculture’s impact among legislators and other leaders. For more information on Ag Day and the many events that will take place, visit www.agday.org.