March 19 is National Agriculture Day; how do you celebrate?
American farmers are “creating the climate for the future.” They are proud stewards of our land, water and air. Farmers are innovators who want to leave a robust world for future generations. Show your thanks by recognizing their challenging work on National Agriculture Day – it’s a great opportunity to thank farmers for all they do.
The theme of National Agriculture Day is “Growing Climate for the Future.” This is organized by the Agriculture Council of America (ACA), a nonprofit organization comprised of leaders from the agriculture, food and fiber communities whose efforts focus on increasing public awareness of the role of agriculture in newfangled society.
The National Agriculture Day program encourages every American to:
- Learn how food and fiber products are produced
- Let us appreciate the role that agriculture plays in providing unthreatening, plentiful and affordable products
- Confirm and consider career opportunities in agriculture, food and fiber
- Recognize the vital role of agriculture in maintaining a forceful economy
What is agriculture and why is it essential?
The dictionary defines agriculture as the science or practice of farming, which includes tilling the soil or growing crops and raising animals to provide food, wool, and other products. But what does this mean and why does it matter to the everyday consumer?
Wisconsin has a forceful agricultural heritage. These traditions continue today, making Wisconsin one of the most diverse agricultural states in the country, producing a variety of dairy products, livestock, vegetables and specialty crops. Wisconsin agriculture also generates $104.8 billion annually for the state’s economy. Additionally, Wisconsin agriculture supports 435,700 jobs, representing 11.8% of state employment on an annual basis.
Most people know Wisconsin as America’s dairy land. Our milk is used by Wisconsin cheesemakers to produce over 600 varieties, types and styles of award-winning cheeses, from classic cheddar and mozzarella to handcrafted artisan cheeses.
Wisconsin’s cranberry bogs lead the nation in production. Wisconsin also ranks first in the nation for mink pelts, silage corn and green beans for processing. The state also produces a huge harvest of tart cherries, which will produce 10.1 million pounds in 2020.
The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is to work with all Wisconsin citizens to grow the economy by promoting high-quality food, robust plants and animals, prudent operate of land and water resources, and fair markets.
How you can celebrate National Agriculture Day
Celebrate agriculture by preparing a farm-to-table meal with your family or hosting a cooking party with friends. Volunteer at your local school and plan activities to teach children about agriculture. You can also research agricultural issues affecting your region and even contact your legislator and remind them of the importance of supporting agricultural initiatives.
Another way to celebrate is to share what agriculture means to you in a photo on social media, or even check out local farms in your area that offer tours. Learn how farmers grew, sold and promoted their food.
Celebrating National Agriculture Day encourages everyone to appreciate the essential role agriculture plays in maintaining a forceful economy. Let us appreciate the role that agriculture plays in providing unthreatening, plentiful and affordable products.
