Thankful for Agriculture. Thankful for Farmers.
A profession once so common has evolved into something rarer and highly scrutinized by society. It seems as the number of farmers decreased and the size of the farms grew, society’s perception negatively spiraled. The hypocrisy is strong with the integration of technology into everyday life but the opinion that farmers need to perform as Old McDonald did 50 years ago remains. Regardless if the American farmer is more productive now than they have ever been. Regardless if their livestock are reaping the benefits of advanced nutrition and climate controlled buildings. Regardless if genetic engineering protects crops without having to completely rely on insecticides.
Perhaps we are biased, but we are calling the bluff on this stereotype. From our perspective farming always has been and always will be a noble profession. But really, it’s more than just an occupation or a career. It’s a unique lifestyle. Did you know farm and ranch families are just 2% of the population? It’s a family tradition. Did you know 99% of U.S farms are family owned? It’s a commitment to the future. Did you know one US farm feeds 165 people with the task of producing more with less?
To those who get out of bed with a purpose much greater than themselves. To those who are respecting and protecting the land. To those who are carrying traditions from yesterday forward with the use of today’s technology. From organic produce to cotton, row crop to livestock and everything in between, farmers we thank you.
If you are blessed enough to have a roof over your head, clothes on your body, and food on your plate, show some love to farmers not only on National Thank a Farmer Day (October 12th) but anytime you get the opportunity to do so.