This podcast episode features an interview with Don Lamb, the director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). The conversation covers various aspects of agriculture in Indiana, including its economic impact, the role of family farms, and future challenges and opportunities. Don Lamb, appointed by Governor Holcomb in March 2023, shares his personal experience as a second-generation farmer and his current role in leading the ISDA. The discussion highlights the importance of agriculture to Indiana's economy, with an estimated $35 billion contribution. Lamb emphasizes that 94-96% of farms in Indiana are family-owned and operated. He discusses the challenges of entering farming due to high costs but also points out the various opportunities available in the agricultural sector. The conversation touches on topics such as the hardwood industry, popcorn production, and the role of youth organizations like FFA in shaping the future of agriculture. Lamb also addresses issues such as land use, environmental stewardship, and the application of technology in farming. The interview concludes with a discussion on the future of farming and advice for sustaining family businesses in agriculture.
The host introduces Don Lamb as the director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, appointed by Governor Holcomb on March 1st, 2023. Don is from Boone County, where he farms with his family, raising corn, popcorn, soybeans, and wheat. The host highlights some of Don's achievements, including being named Outstanding Young Farmer of Boone County in 1996 and Agricultural Professional of the Year by the Boone County Chamber of Commerce in 2014.
Don Lamb explains the broad scope of agriculture, emphasizing its connection to food production and health. He discusses the ISDA's role in leading five divisions: agricultural advocacy, economic development, youth development, environmental stewardship, and the Indiana grain buyers and warehouse licensing agency. Lamb highlights that Indiana is the 9th largest farming state despite being the 38th largest in size, and is the 7th largest exporter of agricultural products in the country.
Don shares his personal story as a second-generation farmer, with his father starting the farm in the mid-1960s. He discusses the challenges of starting and maintaining a family farm, including the high costs of land and equipment. Lamb emphasizes the importance of creativity and patience in entering the farming industry and mentions that 94-96% of farms in Indiana are family-owned and operated.
The host and Don discuss various statistics about Indiana agriculture. They mention that agriculture contributes an estimated $35 billion to Indiana's economy, and 83% of Indiana's land is devoted to farms and forests. Indiana is noted as the top producer of popcorn, gourds, and ducks in the nation, and ranks high in the production of eggs, tomatoes, turkeys, soybeans, and corn. The hardwood industry in Indiana is highlighted as having an annual economic impact of over $10 billion.
Don Lamb discusses the balance between economic development and preserving farmland. He mentions the loss of farmland in recent years due to development but also highlights the opportunities in rural Indiana. Lamb emphasizes the importance of agriculture to Indiana's economy, noting that it contributes more to the state's GDP than the auto industry.
The conversation turns to the future of farming, with a focus on the FFA (Future Farmers of America) convention. Don expresses optimism about the future of agriculture, praising the energy and maturity of the young people involved in FFA. He discusses the various opportunities available in agriculture, from traditional farming to high-tech roles in agricultural technology and biosciences.
In response to a question about advice for family farmers or family businesses to sustain their legacy, Don Lamb emphasizes the importance of communication. He stresses that relationships and people are key to making any business work, and that in family businesses, it's crucial to address challenges openly and discuss goals and plans together.
Action Items
00:25:16 Don Lamb mentioned the need to continue promoting and advocating for agriculture in Indiana.
00:48:56 Don Lamb suggested exploring ways to encourage the right kind of growth while preserving farmland.
00:49:26 Don Lamb emphasized the importance of focusing on rural Indiana and small towns in future economic development efforts.
00:52:49 Don Lamb recommended that farmers should be proactive in adopting environmentally friendly and sustainable farming practices.
01:00:58 Don Lamb stressed the need for continued support and expansion of youth programs like FFA and 4-H to ensure the future of agriculture.
01:04:35 Don Lamb advised family businesses to prioritize communication to sustain their legacy for future generations.
