National Ag Day

My parents moved off the farm in the early 1950s when I was two years old, and my Dad went to work in town. I grew up in a small town in North Texas and was fortunate to have aunts and uncles still actively involved in farming. They raised row crops, livestock and dairy. As a kid, I was able to spend a lot of time on their farms and experience first hand the farm life. Being involved in agriculture was all I ever wanted to do.

I have been blessed to have been involved in the agriculture channel my entire career. This will be my 45^thplanting season this spring and most of that time has been involved in the retail channel dealing directly with farmers. It has been a great career. Definitely not a rose garden with all the variables involved in production ag but the people you come in contact with cannot be beat. Whether it is the manufacturers or their reps that call on the retailer, the farmers that we serve, or the people in the small communities where most of our stores are located, you cannot find a more caring group of people.

When you look at how farming has evolved over the last 100 years, it is truly amazing the progress that has been made. In the 1920s, American farmers made up approximately 30% of the population and produced enough food to feed 3 to 4 people. By 1970, they produced enough to feed approximately 73 people. Today, the American farmer produces enough food to feed 160 – 170 people. That is for people not only in the United States but throughout the world, while American farmers make up less that 1% of the total population in the U.S. Science and technology and determination have brought the American farmer and those that support their efforts to where we are today.

So today as we celebrate National Ag Day, thank a farmer and those that support their efforts.  

I cannot think of a greater tribute than Paul Harvey’s 1978 “So God Made A Famer.” If you have not read it or listened to it, the link is below. It is touching to hear in Paul Harvey’s own words.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWjUT1RjNdQ

Best wishes for a successful spring!

Tim Witcher
President/CEO GreenPoint Ag