By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

The contributions of farmers, ranchers, dairymen and foresters are recognized on Oct. 12—National Farmer’s Day.

“We celebrate the farm and ranch families in agriculture every day, but especially on National Farmer’s Day,” Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening said. “What we do—growing our food, fiber and fuel—is extremely important. But we also provide more than food. Jobs, economic growth and sustainable solutions for the future are all tied to agriculture.”

Growing food isn’t without its challenges, though. Weather-related disasters, rising input costs and market volatility make it increasingly difficult to meet the demands of a growing population. Yet, farmers continue to rise to the occasion, using climate-smart agricultural practices to increase sustainability and protect and conserve natural resources.

“Each farmer may grow their crops a little differently, but we all share two common goals: to care for the land and livestock and to provide affordable, wholesome food for families everywhere—our own families included,” Boening said.

Advances in agriculture and sustainability aren’t new. Farmers and ranchers, like Boening, continue to make improvements, conserve resources and try to better their efficiency—all so that the soil they toil in will be healthy, fertile and ripe with possibility for the future.

“About 97% of farms in the U.S. are family farms,” Boening said. “We are deeply invested in our future. Our values are rooted in hard work, resilience and a connection to the land. That’s why we take care of the land and resources we’ve been entrusted with.”

The state’s varied climates and soil types enable farmers to grow a wide selection of crops, including grains, fiber, timber, fruits and vegetables. Texas is especially well-known for raising cattle, but sheep, goats and poultry are major sectors of the Texas agricultural economy, as well.

“On National Farmer’s Day, we recognize not just the work of farmers, but the traditions, ties to their communities and dedication to sustainability that make agriculture in Texas and the U.S. so great,” Boening said.

He noted that Texas Farm Bureau has worked on behalf of farmers, ranchers and rural communities for 91 years and will continue to do so.

“Farm Bureau is focused on giving farmers and ranchers a voice in Austin and Washington, D.C,” Boening said. “But our organization also provides value and impact through the resources, educational information and leadership opportunities available for farmers and ranchers of all sizes and backgrounds.”

For more information, visit texasfarmbureau.org/membership.