Smith County’s agricultural sector generates $276 million annually and plays a crucial role in the region's broader economy, according to discussions at the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural State of Agriculture Luncheon. The event, held Wednesday in Tyler at the East Texas State Fair Exhibit Building, brought together agricultural and business leaders to examine the industry's economic impact, history, and future. Darren Rozell was honored with the Excellence in Agriculture Award, and Carly Parrott received the fair’s scholarship award.
Clint Perkins, county administrator and county extension agent for agriculture and natural resources for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, reported that East District 5 ranks second in Texas for agricultural income. This district contributes approximately $5.45 billion, representing 14% of the state's total $39.56 billion agricultural production value in 2025. He added that the broader economic impact of agriculture on Texas is estimated at $81 billion after accounting for economic multipliers. In Smith County specifically, hay, beef, poultry, timber, and horticulture constitute major income sources, valued at $276 million annually. Perkins noted that these numbers are expected to increase with rising beef prices but also acknowledged pressure on farmers' margins due to rising production costs and inputs.
Dr. Greg Grant, county extension agent for horticulture for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, discussed Smith County’s long history of horticulture production, dating back to 1906. Initially focused on nuts and fruits, it evolved into rose production, and today primarily involves modern nursery and greenhouse production. Grant highlighted current significant production of blueberries, blackberries, pecans, peaches, tomatoes, Noonday onions, nursery and greenhouse plants, and hay. He stated that Smith County’s grocery sales are around $150 million. Grant explained that the region's rainfall and good soils make it a key production area, especially for nursery plants sold to population centers like Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Fort Worth.
Tom Perkins, 2026 board chair of the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the connection between agriculture and East Texas's success. He said the luncheon, themed “East Texas Agriculture: Tradition, Innovation and the Future” and sponsored by Texas Farm Credit, reflected the long-standing relationship between Tyler's business and agriculture sectors, which dates to the early 1900s. He noted that in 1906, the Tyler Commercial Club, a predecessor to the Chamber, worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to establish William C. Stallings as the first appointed agricultural agent in Texas, who was also the first in the country assigned to serve a single county.
Following expert addresses, the Chamber hosted a panel discussion focused on strategic partnerships, policy, producer challenges, consumer awareness, and the future of agriculture. Panelists included Clint Perkins; Dr. Bryan Rank, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at East Texas A&M; and Michael Vance, owner and managing partner of Southern Reds, LLC. Dr. Rank discussed regenerative land management, advocating for optimizing results over simply maximizing production to ensure future sustainability. Michael Vance highlighted the high cost of capital and land as significant restrictions, suggesting an increased need for partnerships, whether with absentee landowners, young entrepreneurs, or banking institutions.
All three panelists stressed the importance of consumer awareness and agricultural education. Clint Perkins shared an anecdote about teaching young children where milk comes from, illustrating how many generations are now removed from farm life. He stated that education is crucial because "people take agriculture for granted," and it is vital for individuals to understand the origins of their food, clothing, and land.
The Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce concluded the luncheon by honoring Rozell for his significant contributions to the local agriculture industry, citing his leadership and commitment to service. The Chamber also hosts annual State of the City and State of the County addresses to update the public on accomplishments, goals, and future ideas.
