National Agriculture Day

You, I and 142 other people ate today because of one American farmer. We officially recognize our farmers and all they do to make our lives better on March 8, National Ag Day. Farmers not only produce food, fiber and fuel, they contribute to a strong economy. In fact, the total impact of agriculture and agribusinesses account for 20 percent of the state’s economy, according to Kansas Inc.

The role of farmers will become even more critical with the exploding world population. We reached 7 billion people in 2011. The United Nations forecasts that world population will reach 9 billion by 2050 – and that farmers will have to produce 70 percent more food than they do today.

Be part of  agriculture, if even just for one day. Take a drive in the country with your family, for instance. There’s no prettier green than winter wheat fields waking from winter dormancy. And, wave if you see a farmer. I guarantee they’ll wave back.

Happy Ag Day.