From the cotton shirt on your back to the ethanol fueling your car to the after-dinner glass of wine, agriculture is everywhere in your everyday life. And, every day, Iowa farmers raise the crops and livestock that contribute to the nation’s affordable and abundant supply of food, fuel, and fiber. In addition, agriculture represents a strong part of the state’s economy.
During National Ag Week (March 23 – 29) and National Ag Day (Tuesday, March 25), Greene County Farm Bureau will recognize and celebrate the work of the Iowa farmer.
“Iowa farmers are blessed with fertile soil and an environment that’s ideal for growing crops and raising livestock,” says Perry Parker, Greene County Farm Bureau president. “And all Iowans can feel fortunate knowing that their food is being grown and raised by their neighbors, farmers whose families have worked the land for generations and have remained committed to producing wholesome food and protecting our natural resources.”
Iowa farmers lead the nation in corn, soybean, hog and egg production; and the number of cattle producers continues to grow. They’re also among the national leaders in environmental protection, investing about $435 million annually in conservation practices. Iowa ranks first nationally in acres devoted to grassy buffer strips that reduce runoff and protect streams, with almost 13 percent of the nation’s total. To learn more about farming – and how it touches all Iowans – visit www.iowafarmbureau.com.
Each American farmer feeds more than 155 people, which is a dramatic increase from 25 people in the 1960s. Quite simply, American agriculture is doing more – and doing it better. As the world population soars, there is an even greater demand for the food and fiber produced in the United States.
