By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Environmental stewardship is top of mind for many, including the Animal Agriculture Alliance.

The organization helps to connect and engage consumers with agriculture.

One topic the organization puts emphasis on is environmental stewardship.

“Top of mind right now, both for the Animal Agriculture Alliance and farmers and ranchers across the country, is the issue of environmental stewardship,” Emily Solis, manager of communications and content at the Animal Agriculture Alliance, said. “Farmers and ranchers to consumers in the grocery store want to know that what they’re doing is sustainable, that they’re purchasing sustainable products.”

By engaging in conversations with influential leaders, restaurant and food service companies and events, the Animal Agriculture Alliance works positively promote agriculture. The organization strives to ensure consumers understand they can be confidant in where they get their food.

Along with building consumer’s confidence in their food, Animal Agriculture Alliance also works to highlight sustainability within agriculture.

“We really try to highlight a lot of commitments from various industry groups,” Solis said. “We promote all of the progress that farmers and ranchers have made up to this point, while also highlighting their dedication and commitment to future progress, as well.”

The Animal Agriculture Alliance encourages farmers and ranchers to engage and communicate from farm to fork.

“We always say that farmers and ranchers are the best people to be sharing their story, not only about sustainability, environmental stewardship, but really all issues facing agriculture,” she said. “There was a poll by Gallup recently where farmers and ranchers are the number one trusted source when it comes to food and farming. So, when people, the general consumer, the general public, want to know more about food and farming, they want to know more and learn more from farmers and ranchers.”

Animal Agriculture Alliance has established programs to empower farmers and ranchers to be advocates for the industry. Solis noted these impactful conversations will help perceptions of food production become even more positive.

Animal Ag Allies is an online program which encourages farmers, ranchers and practicing veterinarians to advocate online and within their communities.

It is a five-module program that gives industry leaders tips on how to advocate effectively.

“It gives you tips for handling and addressing contentious issues online, how to handle negative comments,” Solis said. “It’s a well-rounded program to make you feel confident, make you feel very much empowered to share your story and deal with potential activists.”

Along with participating in informative modules, participants are added to a private forum with other participants. Solis noted the forum is a place for questions, to gain insight and provides a support system.

For more information on the program, visit the Animal Ag Allies webpage.

To learn more about the Animal Agriculture Alliance, visit AnimalAgAlliance.org.