LOUP CITY, Neb. — Governor Pete Ricketts designated Sherman County as Nebraska’s newest Livestock Friendly County (LFC). Sherman County, located in central Nebraska, is the 49th county in the state to apply for, meet the requirements, and receive the LFC designation. The Livestock Friendly County program is administered by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA).
“By requesting and receiving the state’s Livestock Friendly County designation, Sherman County is building an environment that encourages livestock growth and keeps Nebraska’s agriculture industry strong,” said Governor Ricketts. “Sherman County’s LFC designation shows consumers and businesses around the world that the state is focused on agriculture and open to business.”
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Sherman County had more than $114 million in agriculture receipts for the year 2012. Livestock sales accounted for $36 million, or 32 percent of the total value, with cattle and calf production as the largest livestock segment in the county. Crop production accounted for $78 million, or 68 percent of the total value. Major crops raised in Sherman County include corn, soybeans, and forages/hay.
“Sherman County is home to more than 400 farms and many other businesses with direct ties to agriculture,” said NDA Director Steve Wellman. “With the LFC designation, the people of Sherman County are making a strong statement of support for the livestock industry and all the benefits and growth that come with responsible livestock production.”
More than half of the counties in Nebraska have been designated Livestock Friendly. The complete list is on NDA’s website at: www.nda.nebraska.gov/promotion/livestock_friendly/.
The Livestock Friendly County program was created by the Nebraska Legislature in 2003 to recognize counties that support the livestock industry and new livestock developments. A county wishing to apply for the LFC designation must hold a public hearing, and the county board must pass a resolution to apply for the designation. Additional information about Nebraska’s LFC program is available on NDA’s website at www.nda.nebraska.gov/ or by calling 800-422-6692.
— Office of Governor Pete Ricketts
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