Richland County Agriculture Department students write letters.
Leading up to National Ag Day on March 18, 2025, Olney FFA Chapter members wrote 183 letters to leaders in the Illinois and United States governments. By thanking the letters’ recipients and advocating for agriculture, this chapter hopes to make a difference not only in its community but also in the U.S.
Dear Reader
Richland County High School sophomore Emma Hefferman coordinated the “Letters for Ag” project to ensure its success. “We advocate for agriculture to ensure the future of the vital industry,” she says.
First, Hefferman found a list of senators and legislators to ensure everyone received a letter. Next, she split the names by the number of students in each class and gave them to the corresponding advisor. Finally, she wrote letters to President Donald J. Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. This effort showcases how her chapter is striving for excellence and advocating for agriculture.
“I wanted to raise awareness for the Agricultural Education Line Item in the Illinois budget,” Hefferman says. “I hope these legislators receive these letters, realize how impactful this line item is and how it can benefit the future of agriculture.”
This line item is set at more than $7 million to help benefit agricultural education so it can thrive in Illinois. Without it, advisors and students wouldn’t receive an immense number of opportunities, so it’s important to lobby and spread awareness.
To the Oval Office
After two days of writing letters, the notes were mailed on March 13, with the hopes of arriving at the Oval Office and on the desks of legislators, secretaries and senators by National Ag Day.
Recognized each year, National Ag Day celebrates the accomplishments and things agriculture does for Americans. The Agriculture Council of America started the day in 1973 to help spread awareness; it honors agriculture and informs consumers about how essential goods are produced.
Thank You
To conclude, Olney FFA members in Illinois wrote more than 180 letters to state and federal leaders. Their chapter did this to wish them a happy National Ag Day and advocate for the industry.
Remember, the smallest things — including a letter — can have a huge impact. What can you do to advocate for agriculture?
