The Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss key issues affecting Kansas agriculture, particularly focusing on corn production and export dynamics. The meeting featured presentations from various agricultural representatives, including insights into the state's export patterns and the challenges faced by local farmers.

The session began with a discussion on the export landscape for Kansas agricultural products. It was noted that Midwestern states, including Kansas, export approximately half of their agricultural output, while regions like the Pacific Northwest export a significantly higher percentage, primarily to Asian markets. A notable point raised was the surprising fact that it is currently cheaper to import wheat from Europe to the East Coast than to transport it by rail from Kansas, primarily due to freight rates. This discrepancy prompted calls for further investigation into the underlying reasons for these costs.

Following this, Kent Moore, chairman of the Kansas Corn Commission, provided an overview of the corn industry in Kansas. He reported a successful 2024 harvest, yielding 748 million bushels from around 5.8 million acres. Moore emphasized the diverse climatic conditions across the state, which significantly impact agricultural productivity. He explained that Kansas corn is primarily divided into three markets: one-third for ethanol production, one-third for animal feed, and one-third for out-of-state exports.

Moore highlighted the commission's efforts to promote corn usage, particularly through increasing ethanol blend rates at fuel stations. He noted the commission's educational initiatives aimed at K-12 students, which have expanded significantly, reaching over 104,000 students in the last year alone. This outreach aims to enhance awareness and understanding of corn's role in the economy and environment.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the importance of agricultural commissions and the dedication of individuals involved in advocating for the industry. The committee expressed appreciation for the contributions of agricultural leaders and emphasized the need for continued support and infrastructure development to bolster Kansas agriculture.

Overall, the meeting underscored the vital role of agriculture in Kansas, the challenges posed by market dynamics, and the ongoing efforts to educate and engage the next generation in agricultural practices.