Our Rural Roots

Katie Pratt, Contributor

In the mid-2010s, farmers and ranchers were called to defend their livelihoods in the court of public opinion. I stood on the front lines. Agriculture organizations spent many dollars and hours coaching their members on the hows and whys of sharing agriculture's story.

"Agvocates" were born. Blogs started. Musical parodies shot some farmers to stardom, and as an industry, we showed up on social media.

I spent three years on the road attending food-service conventions, science conferences and meetings of dieticians and nutritionists as the token farmer. With the guidance of some great people, I curated a semisuccessful blog and online presence. Sharing my farm story was part of my everyday.

Of all the hats we farmers wear, public relations manager is one of the most important. While having an online presence is certainly valuable, I've found the discussions held in our own backyards are just as effective at spreading the good word about agriculture.

For several years, the local Rotary and Kiwanis clubs have invited me in as a guest speaker. What started as a request to talk about farming in general has now become specific asks to address specific topics. I think the groups are paying attention when agriculture issues take to the headlines. I'm thankful I'm on the call list when they have questions.

Speaking up for agriculture need not come with a microphone and spotlight. Often, a random conversation is the time an acquaintance feels comfortable saying, "I don't understand why those corn fields look so short" (i.e., referencing detasseled seed corn). Being present in these moments, as the farmers we are, is critical. Answer the questions. Be the resource. Saying "I don't know" is OK.

Celebrate the diversity of our agriculture community. It's important we keep claiming our space as advocates for ag.

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-- Katie Pratt writes and shares her love of agriculture and family with others from a north-central Illinois farm. Find her writing blog at https://theillinoisfarmgirl.com/…

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