U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Wednesday afternoon, along with agriculture industry representatives.

“The farmers, ranchers, foresters and agricultural producers across America contribute a great deal to the American economy,” Secretary Perdue said. “I’m pleased to be here today, at the center of our economic activity, with all these people that I’ve met across the country to celebrate the bounty of the American harvest.”

On the podium, Secretary Perdue was joined by representatives from the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, National Pork Producers Council, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National FFA and several farmers.

Secretary Perdue also welcomed dozens more farmers, producers and leaders to the commemorative event, including Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) Executive Vice President Geoff Cooper. “On behalf of ethanol producers and supporters across the country, I was honored and privileged to join Secretary Perdue for this special occasion. The event was a poignant reminder that agriculture truly is the backbone of our nation’s economy, and America’s farm families play a pivotal role in feeding and fueling our communities,” said Cooper.