We Are Agriculture
A Celebration of National Farmer’s Day
In celebration of National Farmer’s Day this year, AgAmerica reached out to farmers and ranchers from across the nation to share their stories—and they responded with inspirational stories of grit, dedication, and perseverance. Getting to know these farmers and their stories has reminded us yet again of their admirable character and dedication to provide for the world and share what agriculture means to them.
From cattle ranchers to row crop farmers, American farmers overcome some of the greatest hardships to provide for families around the world. While each farmer is unique, there are many similarities amongst them that attest to the resilient spirit of the American Farmer. Some values that were echoed throughout these stories include:
- The importance of family;
- The overwhelming support of the agricultural community;
- The enduring dedication of the American Farmer; and
- The impact of advocacy on the future of agriculture.
Defining a Family Legacy
A central theme amongst our nation’s farmers is the importance of family and generational legacy. Whether they’re embarking on their family’s newfound agricultural legacy or carrying on the legacy of their multigenerational operation, American farmers and ranchers cherish the time spent working and learning alongside their families. Through their everyday actions, the following farmers demonstrate the true meaning of carrying on a family legacy.
The Strong Bonds within the Agricultural Community
A common thread in many of these stories is the endearing way in which the community of agriculture supports one another. In times of need, there is always someone there to lend a helping hand. It is in this wholesome generosity and selflessness that our nation’s farmers and ranchers come together to ensure that food gets to our tables.
Enduring Dedication
American farmers face countless challenges outside of their control. Whether it be variable commodity prices, labor shortages, or weather disasters, they demonstrate their ability to carry on, time and time again. Their passion for preserving the agricultural way of life they hold so dearly is what propels them to forge on even in the face of these hardships.
Purpose Despite Adversity
A unifying characteristic of American farmers and ranchers is that they are driven by a genuine and sincere purpose. Without this purpose, it would be easy to choose another career path with less adversity and more predictability. Leon Etchepare, a California tree nut grower, stated this purpose well: “We as farmers wake up every day to defy many odds to do our best to create food for the local, national, and global consumers.” Like Leon, many farmers are driven by the knowledge that what they do has a fundamental, life-sustaining purpose—feeding people. Unlike other career paths, farming has a tangible effect on people because it is necessary for our survival.
Advocating for the Future of Agriculture
The work of farmers and ranchers often goes unnoticed, and many people do not have an accurate understanding of agriculture. Therefore, advocating for our nation’s farmers and ranchers is an essential part of a thriving future for American agriculture.
Misconceptions About Agriculture
Throughout the years farmers have faced challenges stemming from a general lack of agricultural knowledge by American consumers. While there are many contributing factors, the spread of misinformation is a driving force behind these misunderstandings. Fortunately, a rise of agricultural awareness is occurring. The increased use of social media within the agricultural community has made the disconnect between farmers and consumers even more apparent. As a result, there is a large community of American farmers and ranchers making a difference by sharing how our food is grown and the steps they are taking to protect our people, animals, and environment.
Legislation
Not only do misperceptions of agriculture affect public opinion, but they also impact national, state, and local legislation. Unfortunately, American farmers and ranchers must often deal with laws that negatively impact their operations and ability to provide food for our nation. As a result, the legacies of these farm families are often put at risk. In the words of California tree nut farmer Leon Etchepare, "Our family's legacy changes every time the government releases a new regulation or external factors influence agriculture." Regardless of the intentions of this type of legislation, it fails to consider the needs of the farmer. Therefore, it is important that the voices of American farmers and ranchers are heard and acknowledged in the legislative process because when barriers to agriculture are imposed, our national food security is at risk.
AgAmerica Supports a Thriving Future for Our Nation’s Farmers and Ranchers
Through their dedication to family, their communities, their operations, and advocacy, American farmers and ranchers are defining the future of American agriculture. Without their resilient spirit, agriculture would not be what it is today. In honor of this National Farmer's Day, please join us in celebrating the important members of our community. Watch We Are Agriculture to meet some of the farmers who fuel our nation.
SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF AMERICAN AGRICULTURE.
American farmers play an essential role in fueling our nation, and AgAmerica proudly stands beside them. Learn how we’re building a stronger financial future for American agriculture and rural America.
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