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Photo courtesy of the Boulder County Farmers Market
Photo courtesy of the Boulder County Farmers Market
Colorado marks Ag Week, signs agriculture laws
ColoradoBiz Staff //March 25, 2026//
DENVER — Colorado marked Agriculture Day and Ag Week as Gov. Jared Polis and the Colorado Department of Agriculture highlighted the role of the state’s agricultural industry and announced new laws aimed at supporting farmers and ranchers.
In Brief:
- Colorado marks Ag Week and Agriculture Day with focus on agriculture industry
- Gov. Jared Polis signs two laws supporting farmers and ranchers
- New laws address farmland conservation, loans and livestock health
- State cites farmland loss and highlights agriculture programs and events
Polis signed two bills into law, SB26-064 and HB26-1067, focused on farmland conservation, agricultural loans and livestock health.
“Colorado’s hardworking farmers and ranchers are an important part of our 150-year legacy as a state and an important part of our future,” Polis said.
State officials said SB26-064 is intended to help conserve at-risk farmland and expand access to loans for new and beginning farmers and ranchers. HB26-1067 allows money from livestock indemnity funds to be used to prepare for and respond to disease threats.
Acting Agriculture Commissioner Robert Sakata said Ag Week is a time to recognize agricultural workers and encourage support for local producers. “Supporting our local producers is a direct investment in a robust and resilient food system for all,” Sakata said.
Officials also pointed to ongoing challenges, including farmland loss and livestock disease risks. State lawmakers cited U.S. Department of Agriculture data showing about 1.6 million acres of farmland have been lost in Colorado over five years.
The state is also highlighting agriculture through yearlong programming tied to America 250 and Colorado’s 150th anniversary, including a traveling mural at the Capitol and planned events at the Colorado State Fair.
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