Once winter’s cold ground has thawed, farmers begin planting their warm-season crops. They watch the weather from March to June for the right time to seed and apply fertilizer and crop protection.
Spring is a busy time for FFA members, too, with contest season and supervised agricultural experiences in full swing. Amid the flurry of activities, here are ways you can support local farmers during spring planting.
1. Drive safe.
One of the easiest, most practical ways you can support local farmers is by watching out for them on the road. About 50 tractor operator deaths occur each year because of collisions with motor vehicles, according to the Farm Injury Resource Center. Slow down when you see farm equipment and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Review rural road safety and pass tips on to others.
2. Raise awareness.
Consider taking your concern for farmer safety a step further by raising awareness among your community. Covington FFA members from Covington, Ohio, (pictured) made roadside signs to remind drivers that farmers need to use public roads to move equipment and plant their crops — our food.
3. Post to social media.
Another way to help connect the public to agriculture during planting season is through education. Post photos, videos and information to social media about what it takes for farmers to sow their fields. Answer questions like, “What happens during planting season?”
4. Teach agriculture.
Some questions are better answered through hands-on activities and interactive conversations. Consider reading a book about agriculture to an elementary school class or teaching one of the many planting-related lessons from National Agriculture in the Classroom.
5. Feed a farmer.
Farmers don’t always have time to go home for supper when the weather is right for planting, but they still need to eat. Versailles FFA members in Versailles, Ohio, started a Feed the Farmer program. They package and deliver meals to farmers in the field during harvest, but advisor Dena Wuebker says the same could be done during planting season. Similarly, Chillicothe FFA members in Chillicothe, Mo., (pictured left) support both farmers and local restaurants by delivering purchased boxed lunches.
6. Say “thank you.”
Express your appreciation directly to the farmers you know, whether they’re your parents, an employer or a friend. Volunteer to run errands or take a chore off their plate. Whatever you do for farmers this planting season, don’t forget to say, “Thank you!”
