Educating public on family farms
Oct 23, 2009 10:18 AM
Family farmers not only exist, but are the critical factor that make the nation’s number one industry the world leaders in production of safe and wholesome products, according to a new video titled Farming for Generations released by the National Corn Growers Association.
Polling shows that many Americans no longer understand agriculture in their own country. Most believe that family farming no longer exists and that the majority of crops are grown by faceless entities that they characterize as industrial farms.
Nothing could be further from the truth, NCGA’s many farmers would say. In fact, 95 percent of all farms in the U.S. are family operated. These operations draw upon tradition and a knowledge base built over generations. The hard work of the over two million U.S. family farms provide consumers globally with food, feed and fuel. It also helps sustain the country economically by producing over $12 billion in corn for export annually.
While highlighting these important facts, Farming for Generations introduces viewers to some of the people who make up this vibrant industry. A variety of growers, including members of NCGA Corn Board leadership, offer an unscripted exploration of the values of rural America and the practice of agriculture. Bart Schott, NCGA first vice president, summarizes it all, saying that “food sustains us all, but hard work and hope sustain family farms.” He is a family farmer from Kulm, N.D.
Through this and other projects, NCGA educates the general public on agricultural issues often overlooked or mischaracterized by the mass media. In doing so, the organization helps corn farmers win the support they need and deserve.
The video is available on NCGA’s Web site at: www.ncga.com.
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