It's time to advocate for agriculture  Lori Haresnape, Smith Co. member

Sept. '08

The time is now. It’s time for agricultural producers to get actively engaged in advocating our vocation and way of life. We live in a society filled with activist groups whose soul missions are to shut down production agriculture. They’ll lead you to believe their intentions are good—but agricultural producers and ultimately, American consumers, will suffer. 

Recently on a Farm Bureau leadership trip to Washington D.C., I was briefed on several issues, including farm bill, regulating manure, free trade agreements, clean water, and the “food vs. fuel” debate. We had the opportunity to listen to the Humane Society of the United States talk about their efforts for animal welfare—and they weren’t talking cats and dogs. Before coming home, we visited with our congressional delegation, where a common theme was their colleagues’ lack of knowledge about agriculture. The whole experience was truly eye-opening.  

Fellow producers, it’s time for us to become activists. It’s time to stand up for our vocation and way of life. If you’re planning on your neighbor taking a stand for you, don’t. Chances are, he’s thinking the same of you. One hour a week makes a difference. This isn’t time away from your job; this is your job. Learn about the issues. Write emails or make phone calls to legislators. Tell them how the issues affect you personally. They need supporting arguments to share with their colleagues. For those who think these issues don’t affect you, think again. Farmers and ranchers depend upon our community, but if our rural community doesn’t have farmers and ranchers living and working here, it won’t survive. And, if you enjoy eating good quality American-raised food, consider doing some research and taking action as well. 

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