Steve Troxler
for Commissioner of Agriculture
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Dear Friend:
Our State and Nation were built on agricultural roots, but in the 21st century, most of our citizens have moved away from rural areas into cities. In most cases, they are three generations removed from the farm. Yet agriculture still touches each of their lives every day. Behind every meal there is a farmer-- who worked hard to produce a safe, plentiful food supply for you and your family. I come from four generations of Guilford County farmers. I have owned and operated Troxler Farm for almost thirty years. During this time, I have watched the decline of agriculture's profitability. I've seen farm families forced to sell the farm because of rising costs, government regulations, imported agricultural commodities and smaller profit margins. The dramatic decline in farm revenues during the last few years has added significantly to our state's budget woes. A strong agricultural economy is vital to the overall financial health of our entire state and its families. We must find a way to restore profitability to farming operations, and thus, restore North Carolina to its rightful place as a world leader in agricultural production. While farming and raising a family, Sharon and I also became involved in both agricultural groups and tourism to help promote agriculture and improve the plight of farm families. I have been involved in agricultural leadership at the local, state, and national level during most of my adult life. My family has also welcomed numerous local, national, and international visitors to our farm to give them a first-hand look at agriculture in this state. My running for Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services is a natural extension of the work I have done my entire life ---providing leadership and promotion for North Carolina agriculture. I still believe that the person elected as Commissioner must have the "Heart of Agriculture", which is acquired by experiencing the successes and the failures of crops and agricultural policy. I have that "Heart of Agriculture". I have been a full-time farmer, husband, and father for the past 30 years, and I understand well that the best crop North Carolina agriculture will ever grow is the next generation of farmers. Unfortunately, many farm families cannot bring their children back into agriculture under current conditions. I will fight to insure that agriculture in this state has a future. I am proud to be an advocate for the farmers and consumers of North Carolina, and I look forward to serving you as your North Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. |
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