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Farmer discusses importance of ag knowledge in first legislative session

State Representative Kendell Culp is the lone full-time farmer in the Indiana General Assembly.

“It’s kind of hard to believe in Indiana that’s the case. We’re the eighth largest exporter of agricultural commodities out of the 50 states, but that’s where we’re at today,” he says.

He tells Brownfield he’s happy to serve as a sounding board on agricultural issues.

“I’m happy that a lot of other legislators are coming and saying ‘hey, we know you know agriculture. If we have concerns or questions about that we’re going to come to you and ask for guidance.’ I appreciate that,” he says. “Just as I go to a doctor who is an Indiana House member with health and medical legislative topics.”

He says a lot of legislators represent rural districts.

“The are very attuned to the agricultural organizations and the needs of ag. They know (the industry) is important to their district and they’re very sympathetic to not only agricultural issues, but rural issues and how it affects those rural communities,” he says. “We know agriculture really provides that foundation for a lot of those rural communities and their economies. That’s important to legislators and they understand the big picture of that. Agriculture, our rural communities, and how we help with the economic development of those communities is really vital.”

Culp raises corn, soybeans, hogs, and beef cattle near Rensselaer. The fourth-generation farmer works alongside his wife, father, and son.

Culp represents House District 16, including parts of Jasper, Pulaski, Starke, and White counties including each of those county seats: Rensselaer, Winamac, Knox, and Monticello.