Who is a farmer?

 Before the “local food movement” began, not many people could answer the question; “Where did your dinner come from?”  Fortunately, the desire to become a healthier nation, and in turn, utilize the local growing population- most of us can, indeed, pinpoint where their food comes from.

Upon entering the grocery store, the produce aisle is laden with colorful signs highlighting the local farms that have provided the glorious fruits and vegetables that we fill our carts with. The meat aisle features locally raised cattle, pig and poultry. It’s wonderful to be able to make the decision to purchase our food that didn’t have to travel very far to end up in our refrigerator. It’s even better when we can find these items at markets and roadside stands.

Still, the question remains, though. WHO are these people we call “farmers”? The answer is simple. A farmer is a man you pull up next to at a stop light. A farmer is the woman, with her children in line at the grocery store. A farmer is the man, with his family, who sits in front of you at church. A farmer is educated. A farmer is highly qualified.  A farmer puts YOUR need for healthy food consumption ahead of HIS own sleep, HIS own family time, HIS own hobbies. A farmer looks just like you, but deep down inside, he has a spark that continually ignites a passion to work the land, cultivate the gifts that God has given, and provide the best quality product he can.

THIS is who a farmer is.

The mission of the American Farm Bureau is “To Serve and Strengthen Agriculture”.  Farm Bureau is a non-governmental, volunteer organization financed and controlled by member families for the purpose of solving economic and public policy issues challenging the agricultural industry.

Throughout the country, each state and county chapter of American Farm Bureau consists of a volunteer board of directors. These men and women, strive to provide the best possible representation to their area farmers. When a need arises within the local agricultural community, Farm Bureau is available to assist it’s member farms in any way possible.

American  Farm Bureau protects family farming and the preservation of open space. It coordinates farmer donations to food pantries across the country.  Your local Farm Bureau ensures that the voices of farmers are heard by the local government agencies, by the state law makers in Albany and by our National leaders in Washington D.C..

American Farm Bureau supports ag-education within the schools and our communities; helping to better support the agricultural leaders of our future. But, most of all, Farm Bureau maintains and supports your LOCAL agricultural industry and jobs.

Farm Bureau supports EVERY FARMER.

How can YOU help bring YOUR food to YOUR table?

Join us! Whether you are a far

mer and become a full member, or an agricultural supporter and become an associate member, YOU are helping us grow and raise the best possible food for your family.

If you would like more information, or would like to know how you can get involved in a local chapter of Farm Bureau where you live, I would LOVE to help you.