§ 178. Legislative findings and intent. The legislature finds and determines:

1. that the state's vast agricultural resources and significant agricultural products industries play a key role in the continuing economic growth and vitality of all regions of the state;

2. that significant untapped agricultural resources present economic development opportunities that could promote growth thereby enhancing the well being of employers and employees in food processing and other related agricultural businesses, as well as promoting the economic well being of farm families throughout the state through job creation and job retention; and

3. that the state's agricultural interests will be enhanced in the event opportunities to expand the market for agricultural crops and processed foods can be developed in the state, nation and internationally.