Most people today are at least three generations removed from the farm- that means we have tons of kids who are growing up without even having grandparents who farm. This is partly due to the fact that it can be pretty difficult to pass farms down through families, which becomes harder to do every year. All of this has created a much lower level of public ag literacy. However, this means that agricultural advocacy is even more important than it used to be. Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) First Vice President Jolene Riessen said she?s been lucky to have her sons join her on the farm, but she knows of many families who have been far less fortunate.
Fortunately for the ag industry, Riessen has decided to fully embrace the opportunity to be a positive advocate for agriculture. Riessen said that she obviously has nothing to hide on her farm- much like almost every other farmer- so she welcomes anyone who wants to visit and learn more about agriculture.
Riessen?s passion for agricultural advocacy has fed into her ability as an ICGA leader, and that leadership has also circled back to feed into her ability to advocate.
Riessen added that it?s incredibly for agriculturists to advocate for themselves. After all, if we don?t, who will?
For more information on the Iowa Corn Growers Association?s policy and advocacy efforts, visit iowacorn.org.
