American agriculture is responsible for providing the necessities of everyday life?food, fiber and even fuel. That?s the message of National Ag Week, which is celebrated March 15-21.
The National Ag Week program is committed to increasing public awareness about Ameri?can agriculture. As the world population soars, there is even greater demand for the food, fiber and renewable resources that the United States produces.
The Agriculture Council of America, organizers of National Ag Week, says every citizen should understand how food, fiber and renewable-resource products are produced and value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy. Consumers should appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products.
National Ag Week focuses on educating Americans about the industry so they may also acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, fiber and renewable resource industry.
Today?s farmer feeds more than 130 people in the United States and abroad. In 1960, that number was 25. Today, more than 15 percent of the U.S. population is employed in farm or farm-related jobs.
Each year, the National Ag Week program gathers members of the agricultural industry in an effort to promote American agriculture. Focused on sharing how agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis, this program helps educate millions of consumers each year.
We urge you to help join this effort to promote American agriculture to everyone during National Ag Week.
Bill Harmon is executive director of the Marion County FSA office.
