In the vast expanse of America’s heartland, where amber waves of grain stretch as far as the eye can see, lies the beating heart of our nation—the American farmer. National Ag Day is not just a celebration of the beauty of our agricultural landscape, but a tribute to the men and women whose tireless efforts sustain us all. While farmers play a crucial role in feeding the world, they are supported by a network of essential contributors, including ag businesses, processors, truckers, distributors, marketers, and consumers. As we mark this occasion, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks not only to my own family but to farmers everywhere. They tirelessly work to feed the world, whose dedication ensures food security for millions. 

Growing up on a farm, I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication it takes to be a farmer. It’s more than just a job—it’s a whole way of life, deeply woven into the fabric of their being. Farmers exemplify qualities like resilience and stamina, rising before the sun and working late into the night to tend to their crops and livestock. They are some of the hardest working people that I know. 

Paul Harvey’s timeless speech, “God Made a Farmer,” beautifully captures the essence of agriculture—a calling that goes beyond just a job. It’s about caring for the land, feeding both body and soul, and feeling a deep connection to nature with every seed sown and every harvest reaped. What other profession puts as much faith into their job as a farmer? My great-grandfather, Walker, always said farming was never a gamble but a testament of faith–the faith that weather will cooperate and that those tiny seeds will grow to make enough income to feed the family. 

The statistics are staggering– a mere 1.5% of our population, the American farmer, feeds 330 million people worldwide three times a day, from breakfast to dinner, and all the snacks in between. It’s concerning that people aren’t fully astonished by that reality. If you ate today, thank the farmer. Feeding the world is not an easy task. Yet, despite the enormity of this responsibility, farmers across the United States rise to the challenge year after year, working in acres, not hours, to ensure that our tables are filled with nutritious food.

Despite their dedication, their journey is not without its challenges. Our farmers have been through a lot the past few years, from a global pandemic, high inputs, low commodity prices, to unpredictable weather. They face obstacles that would deter the faint of heart. Yet, they persevere and continue to do what they have always done—growing and producing the food that we rely on every single day. They don’t do it because it’s their job, they do it because they were born for this. It is in their blood you might say. Their connection to the land is such a profound sense of purpose—a calling that shapes both identity and legacy. They embody qualities of patience, perseverance, and passion, serving as pillars of strength and inspiration for their communities.

As we honor the American farmer on this National Ag Day, let us not forget the countless individuals who labor behind the scenes, their hands bearing the calluses of honest toil. They are the unsung heroes of our agricultural landscape, often overlooked but indispensable to our existence. To all farmers, I extend my deepest admiration and gratitude. Your unwavering commitment to the land inspires us all, underscoring the true value of agriculture and the enduring legacy of farming in America. 

If you know a farmer you are thankful for, click the link below or head to our “Nominate a Farmer” tab to highlight their hard work and dedication throughout our community.