There’s something magical about summer evenings in Missouri. As the sun sets over endless rows of corn and soybeans, you can feel the day cooling off while crickets start their nightly music. It’s in these moments, watching the golden light paint our deep green fields gold, that I’m reminded why Missouri isn’t just a great place for agriculture – it’s an incredible place to call home.

Being part of Missouri’s $94 billion agricultural community means belonging to something bigger than yourself. We’re not just farmers here; we’re innovators, scientists, and visionaries – aren’t farmers so diverse and cool?! Missouri is an extra special place for agriculture. From the cutting-edge research happening at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center to young farmers incorporating drone technology, autonomous equipment and regenerative ag practices into their daily operations, Missouri is writing the future of agriculture. And the best part? We’re doing it while maintaining the close-knit community feel that makes the Midwest oh-so special.

Living in Missouri means you get to experience all four seasons in their full glory, each bringing its own agricultural rhythm. Spring brings the excitement of planting and the sweet smell of rain (we hope!) on fresh soil. Summers are alive with growing crops and farmers markets bursting with local produce. Fall paints our landscape in rich colors while combines harvest golden fields. Even winter has its own charm, as the farming community lightens their load & begins planning for the next season and attends agricultural conferences.

But what truly sets Missouri apart is how seamlessly the agricultural lifestyle blends with modern living. Where else can you go from checking crops in the morning to watching a Cardinals game in the evening? As camping connoisseurs, Missouri State Parks are our favorite. Missouri houses 93 state parks that offer endless weekend adventures, and with more coastline than California (thanks to our gorgeous Mississippi & Missouri rivers!), water activities are always just a short drive away. One highlight for raising our family in Missouri is that our kids can grow up understanding both farming traditions and cutting-edge technology, all while enjoying the safety and community spirit of Missouri living.

The affordability of living here means your dreams can grow as big as our cornfields. Young farmers and agricultural professionals are flocking to Missouri because they can actually afford to build both a career and a life here. Whether you’re starting your first farming operation or bringing your agtech startup to life, Missouri’s supportive business environment and rich agricultural heritage provide the perfect foundation for success.

What I love most about Missouri is how it offers the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the serenity of rural life while still having access to world-class healthcare, education, and culture. Our communities range from charming small towns to vibrant cities, each offering its own unique blend of Midwest hospitality. And let’s not forget our incredible food scene – from farm-to-table restaurants to award-winning breweries and wineries, Missouri knows how to celebrate its agricultural prize.

There’s a saying here in the Show-Me State: we don’t just tell you about our greatness, we show you. So come see for yourself why Missouri is the heart of American agriculture. Whether you’re looking to advance your agricultural career, start a family, or simply find a place where innovation meets tradition, Missouri welcomes you with open arms and endless opportunities. Trust me – once you experience the Missouri magic, you’ll never want to leave.

Learn more at the Missouri Partnership website.