

President's Message
Dear Friends of Agriculture,
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is honored to host the 2023 Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture (SASDA) Annual Conference in Montgomery, Alabama! Our great state is bountiful in natural beauty and southern hospitality. From our white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico to the first mountains of the Appalachian Range, Alabama’s diversity offers something for everyone.
During the conference, we will enjoy some of the best locally grown foods and products our farmers have to offer. The farmers and producers are connected through and promoted by our state’s branding program, Sweet Grown Alabama. Over 350 statewide members grow, produce and sell Sweet Grown Alabama products.
We hope that you will enjoy the southern hospitality during your relaxing and informative week. Our staff looks forward to welcoming you all to Alabama. If you would like to enjoy some extra time relaxing join us for the Pre-Conference in Orange Beach for some education and Alabama’s beautiful beaches!
We want to recognize and thank our many generous sponsors, for making the 2023 SASDA conference possible.
It is my hope that during SASDA 2023 you can see Alabama’s beautiful historical sites, learn more from key agriculture speakers, and enjoy your time in Sweet Home Alabama!
See you all in June!
Rick Pate
SASDA President
Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries

SASDA
SASDA strives to improve American agriculture through the development and promotion of sound public policy and agriculture-related businesses and programs, and to communicate the vital economic importance of agriculture.