By Shala Watson
Staff Writer
A tour through America’s Heartland offered unique experiences and a better understanding of agricultural issues for Texas Farm Bureau’s AgLead XII participants.
The five-day trip encompassed several visits that gave an in-depth look at the agricultural economy, agricultural education systems and agribusiness in the Midwest.
“The Midwest is a vital part of agriculture, housing corporate offices such as McDonald’s, Fairlife LLC, and Deere & Company,” TFB Director of Organization Jamie Gipe said.
Agricultural markets in the Midwest benefit from proximity to the Mississippi River, which allow farmers to grow more crops.
“A vast amount of corn and beans are produced in the Midwest,” Gipe said. “Their central location and access to the Mississippi River allows them many venues to market their grain, including overseas exports.”
The participants were able to gain a better grasp on agricultural business concepts through meetings with McDonald’s corporate executives and Fairlife LLC management.
AgLead participants were also able to see the value of agricultural education programs through their visit to the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences, which has the fifth largest FFA program in the nation.
“The school draws interest from students all over Chicago and prepares them to be marketable in the industry and be college ready,” Gipe said.
The school raises hay, cattle, chickens, goats and sheep. Teachers and administration work to get kids inspired and passionate about agriculture.
But agricultural education extends beyond secondary schools. Fair Oaks Farms—a large family-owned dairy in Indiana—hosts about one million visitors a year to help provide a better understanding of the dairy, swine and crop production systems in place.
“Fair Oaks Farms has a major impact on educating and engaging consumers through their interactive Farm Adventure tours,” Gipe said.
The participants also toured the Mississippi Lock and Dam 15.
Gipe said discussions on the history of the Mississippi River and the lock and dam system gave participants valuable insight of a major transportation corridor for agricultural commodities to move up and down the river.
Trends in agriculture were also highlighted on the trip at Deere & Company’s headquarters.
“Research and development of new products and new marketing strategies is key to the economic success of retailers,” Gipe said, noting the importance of leadership and vision. “Understanding the value of being an effective leader is critical to success.”
They also discussed issues impacting farmers in the Midwest. Capital investments to start or expand operations are a concern for both Texas and Midwest farmers.
“Discussion with DeKalb County Farm Bureau provided some insight to how county, state and federal regulation has impacted their farming operations,” Gipe said.
Stepping beyond their Texas fencerows offered AgLead XII members an opportunity to learn, grow and share their experiences. Furthering impacting agriculture in the Lone Star State.