Did you pick out the perfect Valentine’s Day card for your sweetheart yet? The sometimes-cheesy selections in the card aisle probably say things like “I am devoted to you” or “You have all my attention”. Farmers have the same devotion and attention to their land, animals and resources all year long.
If a farmer were to write a Valentine’s Day card to their land, water or animals, here is what it might say:
1. I am responsible for you
Farmers are responsible stewards of their land. Healthy soil leads to clean air and water, high yielding crops, quality grazing land, diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Farmers use the latest technology like cover crops, no-till and precision application to care for and enhance their soil
2. I pay attention to you
Farmers pay attention to their impact on water quality. Water is essential for human life. Clean lakes, rivers and streams start with smart, sustainable farming practices. Farmers and their families often live and play on the farm, making it all the more important to have clean, quality water to drink. Water runs downhill, and farmers are constantly working to improve methods upstream to minimize their impact on overall water quality.
3. I am devoted to you
Farmers are devoted to the absolute best care for their animals – they come first. Well cared for animals are healthier and more productive, contributing to a product that is healthy and safe for consumers and farm families to enjoy. Farmers show their dedication to their animals by giving them the best care throughout all stages of their lives.
4. I protect you
Preserving and protecting natural resources has always been and will always be a priority in every aspect of food production. Farmers are innovators and continue to create and adopt methods to progress towards their goals. Farmers protect their resources by using new technology and improving efficiency on their farms.
5. I appreciate you
Farmers appreciate sharing their knowledge and passing their legacy on to the next generation. The mutually beneficial relationship between farmers and the next generation helps to ensure continuous progress. Farmers show their appreciation by setting up the land and resources for success for years to come.
Farmers are loyal to their land, animals and resources and show they care in many different ways. While the card aisle may be filled with cheesy selections this holiday, a farmer’s love of the land is undeniable.
Rachel Gerbitz is WFBF’s Director of Sustainability Communications and Partnerships. In this role, Gerbitz oversees the organization’s sustainability communication efforts.
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