C Magazine - Winter 2018

C Tomorrow

2018-02-01 15:29:54

Speaking Out for Agriculture

The number of Americans living on farms and ranches slid below 3 percent four decades ago. With few people having real connections to how their food is produced, survival of U.S. agriculture will require building bridges with neighbors and communities, says Sara Hewitt, a Kilkenny, Minn., farmer and ag advocate.

When she wrote a blog post to explain how Minnesota buffer rules would affect farmers, Hewitt was amazed at the response. “It was completely over the top." But the feedback began a dialogue that helped her describe food production from a farmer’s perspective. That experience fortified Hewitt’s desire to help consumers appreciate agriculture.

“You have to tell your story every day, in fifth-grade terms,” Hewitt advises. “Be proactive, offer to help the media and talk to your legislators. Don’t be afraid to knock on a door.”

Hewitt and her husband, Mark, run Sweet Cheeks Honey and are part of Hewitt Farms. Sarah also works for the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association and Mark runs Hewitt Precision Insights. They share their ag expertise via social media and school visits.

Speaking out for ag isn't always easy, Hewitt adds. “Be the voice of reason and respect within your network. Sometimes on social media, you may find yourself having a conversation you didn’t realize you were having.”

— Cynthia Clanton

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