This is an exciting time for farmers and ranchers of all types and sizes as agriculture is a bright spot in the American economy. In 2011, agricultural exports hit a record high and producers saw their best incomes in nearly 40 years.

In 2011, agricultural exports hit a record high and producers saw their best incomes in nearly 40 years.

The rise of childhood obesity has placed the health of an entire generation at risk.

I can't give you a specific number today, in large part because the analysis upon which we would make that determination has not been completed. . . . I think it is fair to say there may be additional costs associated with a farming operation, but it is very difficult to quantify.

People working together in a strong community with a shared goal and a common purpose can make the impossible possible.

The rural economy is significantly better. Our natural resources, particularly our working lands, are more resilient. And more money is being invested in soil conservation and water preservation. Our forests will be in better shape if Congress does what it needs to do to fix the fire-suppression budget.

And sometimes people don't realize that 90 percent of the persistent poverty counties are located in rural America.