In
addition to the daily chores on the farm, it is important for farmers to work
on educating the public about who they are, what they do and why it matters.
Here are some practical ideas for farmers who want to help
educate consumers in their communities:
Farm tours or other on-farm events
Opening your doors for farm tours, ice cream socials with
neighbors and legislator visits provides visitors with a first-hand look at
modern agriculture. Education in a transparent format provides the public an opportunity
to see what happens on the farm, ask questions and develop trust in farmers and
the food produced. These tours and events can form lasting bonds between
farmers and consumers.
School visits
Offer to read a book about farming or take a little bit of
the farm to the school. A piece of equipment, calf, lamb or small animal will
grab the students’ attention and give you the perfect opportunity to share your
farming story. There may be a wooden cow in your community that can be borrowed
and taken to school along with samples of milk, cheese, ice cream or yogurt.
Library displays
Books, audio tapes, DVDs and even works of art at local
libraries can be used to help consumers of all ages understand more about
agriculture. Helping your local library incorporate these into displays will
create interest in learning more about agriculture. March is the perfect time
to do this as National Agriculture Day is right around the corner on March 25.
Fairs, farmers markets
County fairs and farmers markets attract large audiences and
many of the visitors attend with hopes of learning more about agriculture. At
the fair, they want to get close to the animals; see the carrots, corn and
cabbage vying for blue ribbons and climb aboard a tractor. At the market, they
want to meet farmers and purchase locally grown and raised food. Consider
talking to your local fair board or market master about providing a display of
the commodities produced in the area, setting up “A taste of Agriculture”
activity that is complete with food samples or offering to do agriculture
related activities with the kids, such as making butter.
Service club presentations
Many service clubs incorporate educational presentations
during their club meetings. When invited, take advantage of the opportunity to
share your passion for farming. You can keep the presentation simple and short.
Begin by introducing yourself and completing the statement: “I farm
because_______. A panel discussion with farmers representing a variety of
commodities can also be very impactful. Whatever the approach, it is important
to encourage questions from the audience.
In-store education
Point of purchase education is a great way to meet and talk
to consumers. Whether it is in the dairy department, the meat case or in the
produce section, consumers have questions about the food choices available. So
why not ask your local grocery store or supermarket if you can spend time in
the store interacting with consumers and answering their questions? Grab the
shopper’s attention with a display, food sample or by wearing a name tag that
says “Ask me, I’m a farmer”.
Welcome conversations wherever you are
Whether you are at the gas station, in the
dentist’s chair or at the post office welcome conversations and always be ready
to answer questions about farming. To build consumer trust in the food system,
it is important for farmers to stay informed, actively listen, invite and
embrace dialogue.
(from Michigan State University)
Posts
A Soil Health Workshop will be held Tuesday, March 11 from 9:30 am to
2:30 pm. The beginning of the workshop
will be field presentations at the farm of Todd Lohmann, 1286 PCR 502,
Perryville, MO. Lunch and the completion
of the workshop will be at the Longtown Lutheran Parish Hall, 6483 S Hwy 61 in
Perryville.
