§ 178. Legislative findings and intent. The legislature finds and
determines:

1. that the state's vast agricultural resources and significant
agricultural products industries play a key role in the continuing
economic growth and vitality of all regions of the state;

2. that significant untapped agricultural resources present economic
development opportunities that could promote growth thereby enhancing
the well being of employers and employees in food processing, animal and
plant fiber processing and other related agricultural businesses, as
well as promoting the economic well being of farm families throughout
the state through job creation and job retention; and

3. that the state's agricultural interests will be enhanced in the
event opportunities to expand the market for agricultural crops and
processed foods, and animal and plant fiber textile products can be
developed in the state, nation and internationally.