From behind the lens of a high-powered camera, Jim Richardson, photographer for National Geographic, gives Kansans a new focus on the world of agriculture. Lecturing on March 18 at 7 p.m. in the Kansas State University Union Little Theatre, Richardson will take viewers on a visual journey, zooming in on “Feeding a Hungry Planet”.

Celebrating March as Kansas Agriculture Month, the Kansas Department of Agriculture and many agricultural sponsors and organizations across the state have joined together to host Richardson. Being well-traveled, Richardson has seen hunger around the world, and understands the importance of meeting the need to feed a growing population.

Following Richardson’s lecture, a panel of Kansas agriculture experts will take the stage to address Kansas’ role in feeding a hungry planet. Agriculture is Kansas’ largest sector, contributing a total of $53 million to the economy. Ranking number one in the country in wheat and grain sorghum production, Kansas agriculturalists work diligently to feed the world. Eric Atkinson, radio specialist and agriculture director for the K-State Radio Network will serve as moderator for the panel.

The event is open to the public and we encourage all seeking to know more about where their food comes from and how it travels from the farm to the fork to attend. Please direct questions about the event to Beth Gaines, Kansas Department of Agriculture at: Beth.Gaines@kda.ks.gov.

This event is part of Kansas Ag Month celebrations, including the Neighbor to Neighbor Food Drive, happening around the state to help our neighbors in need as well as highlight the agriculture industry in Kansas.

Kansas Agriculture Month sponsors include: the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Kansas Association of Ethanol Processors, Frontier Farm Credit, Heritage Tractor Inc., Kanas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Kansas Corn Commission, Kansas Cotton Commission, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, Kanas Pork Association, Kansas Wheat Commission, Livestock Marketing Association, Kansas Dairy Association, Dairy Farmers of America, Seaboard, Kansas Soybean, Kansas Beef Council, Ardent Mills, Kansas Bankers Association and Kanas Sorghum.

For more information about Ag Month celebrations please go to www.agriculture.ks.gov/ksagday