Recognizing Importance of Agriculture
Recognizing Importance of Agriculture
Celebrating Agriculture National Agriculture Day ( March 21st) celebrates 50 years of advocacy and awareness for agriculture. Ag day is the beginning of National Agriculture Week goes through March 27th this year. The day and week are set aside to recognize the importance of agriculture and to honor those who work to produce food for… Read More »
Celebrating Agriculture
National Agriculture Day ( March 21st) celebrates 50 years of advocacy and awareness for agriculture. Ag day is the beginning of National Agriculture Week goes through March 27th this year. The day and week are set aside to recognize the importance of agriculture and to honor those who work to produce food for our family’s tables. Founded in 1973 by the Agriculture Council of America, the day recognizes farmers who grow food and farmers in the fiber ag community. Food farmers represent those who grow fruits and vegetables and fiber farmers grow cotton, hemp, and flax for the textile and cordage industry (ropes). These fiber farmers also raise animals such as sheep, goats, and alpacas for their fleece and wool. We all work together to keep the nation fed and clothed.
Embracing Changes
Farming has changed a lot in this century, not only in the tools and innovations but also through the efficiencies and connections that today’s farmers are working hard to achieve. Advances in machinery and technology have helped to increase yields, while more knowledge and resources have also benefitted the industry as a whole. These resources not only connect farmers they also help build awareness about the importance of agriculture in everyday life. These efforts have helped the viability of farming by assisting with pressing issues facing farmers today while establishing the next generation of growers. Some of the ag resources available include; American Farm Bureau Federation, Farm Credit East, New Jersey State Board of Agriculture, the New Jersey Young Farmers and Young Ag Professionals, New Jersey Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee, American Agri-Women, National Women in Agriculture Association, NAFDMA, and National Farm to School Network.
Doing Your Part
Shop locally (year-round), or visit your local farmer’s market in your town. Other ways you can connect with local
agriculture is by purchasing a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture weekly box of fresh produce) and eating in harmony with the seasons. Visit your local farm today to get to know your food and farmer. Check out these other Ways to Eat Fresh on our website.
About Alstede Farms
Alstede Farms, a first-generation family farm, is a pioneer in sustainable agriculture, growing over 250 varieties of fruits and vegetables on over 800 acres of preserved farmland in Morris County. Alstede Farms is focused on being the best farm in the northeast and provides high-quality, homegrown, local fruits and vegetables as well as memorable farm experiences to the local community, including offering visitors the opportunity to pick their own produce and experience first-hand how their food is grown before it makes it to their dinner table. Alstede Farms produces a wide variety of its own local fruits, vegetables, and flowers grown using only sustainable farm production methods, and is open year-round, to bring warmth, family fun, quiet solace, and friendly service to its guests throughout New Jersey
