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HELP TELL THE REAL STORY OF AGRICULTURE |
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Become an Agriculture Advocate Kansas commodity groups, representing corn, grain sorghum, beef, wheat, soybeans and pork organized a conference November 4-5, 2009 where growers and ranchers from across the state were trained on being an advocate for agriculture. Here are a few ways you can be an ag advocate. Why YOU? There are a variety of organizations who are threatening your livelihood. In fact, these groups are very well funded with hundreds of millions of dollars in tax-exempt revenue annually. According to a study done by the Center for Food Integrity, “Consumers hold farmers/producers primarily responsible for humane treatment of farm animals, but they lack confidence and trust in all groups to ensure it.” The public trusts you. 91% of the general public believes that farmers and ranchers are a credible source. 80% believe a HSUS spokesperson is credible and 15% say an elected official has credibility. You are a credible source, so now is the time to share your story. More importantly, people want to hear your story. What should you tell people? Not everyone understands what it is you actually do. Tell about the work you do such caring for your crops, animals and land. Explain that you don’t have a 9-5 job and you work long days, weekends, and even holidays. The personal stories you can share are helpful to people in making a connection with you and better understanding the role of a farmer or rancher. Most of the information people receive today comes from news sources, internet, and family or friends.
Social Media
Blog
Media Interviews -Know your topic beforehand. Ask the reporter what you will be talking about. -Do additional research if needed. -Never hesitate to contact one of the commodity groups for more information to prepare for an interview -Take a few seconds after each question to gather your thoughts. -If you are being interviewed for a television broadcast, relax, and let your arms hang comfortably at your sides. -Keep answers concise and speak clearly. -It's okay if you don't know an answer to a question.
Letter to the
Editor As a Kansas producer, the land is my livelihood and my legacy to future generations. When I chose to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather and Dad, I made a commitment to myself, my family and my community to be a good steward of the environment and do my part to provide safe and nutritious food for the world. As evidence of the success of ranchers, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, food animal production in the U.S. contributes less than 2.4% of total greenhouse gas emissions. One American farmer or rancher produces enough food to feed 144 people each day. And because 85% of U.S. land used as pasture is unsuitable to grow crops, grazing animals, like cattle, more than doubles the area we can use to produce food for a hungry world. Environmentally conscious consumers should continue to enjoy lean beef with confidence, knowing they are doing the right thing for their health and the earth’s natural resources. Name, Address, Phone number
Proactive letter
Beef producers
like myself are full-time environmentalists. I celebrate Earth Day
every day — not only because my livelihood is so dependent on water
and soil, but because protecting the environment is simply the right
thing to do. Facebook Pages to Visit Kansas Grain Sorghum Producers Blogs
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