New center strengthens research and insight into U.S. agriculture
The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City has announced the launch of the Center for Agriculture and the Economy, reaffirming its dedication to highlighting the role of agriculture and rural communities in the U.S. economy.
“For many years, the Kansas City Fed has provided critical insights into one of the nation’s most vital industries—agriculture,” said Jeff Schmid, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. “The establishment of this center formally recognizes our District’s investment in this area and highlights the vital importance that we place on gathering insights from all of those who have a role in the ag economy.”
The Center will serve as a hub for research and analysis, providing timely insights into agricultural and rural economic trends. It builds upon the Kansas City Fed’s longstanding leadership in monitoring the agricultural sector through initiatives such as the Agricultural Finance Updates and the Ag Bulletin.
“It is vitally important to us that we include voices from agriculture, including related industries and rural places, in our work,” said Nate Kauffman, senior vice president with the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and executive director of the Center. “Our goal is that the Center for Agriculture and the Economy will reflect this two-way exchange where, in addition to us taking in information, we also produce research and resources that provide value to those connected to agriculture.”
The Center will continue the Fed’s outreach by engaging farmers, agribusiness leaders, and rural stakeholders to better understand emerging challenges and opportunities in the sector.
Serving a region that includes Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wyoming, northern New Mexico, and western Missouri, the Kansas City Fed remains a key source of economic insights from America’s heartland.
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