To the Editor:

Let’s celebrate: It’s National Agriculture Day on March 20.

It’s a day to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. Every year, producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless other across America join together to recognize the contributions of agriculture.

Each American farmer feeds more than 144 people … a dramatic increase from 25 people in the 1960s. Quite simply, American agriculture is doing more — and doing it better. As the world population soars, there is an even greater demand for the food and fiber produced in the United States.

Agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis. But too few people truly understand this contribution. This is particularly the case in our schools, where students may only be exposed to agriculture if they enroll in related vocational training. By building awareness, the Agriculture Council of America is encouraging young people to consider career opportunities in agriculture.

To celebrate National Ag Day,the Southampton County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee is promoting several contests that are open to the public. All contest and contact information can be found online at www.vafb.com/programs/contests/contests.htm or by visiting the Southampton County Farm Bureau office, located at 23507 Jerusalem Road, Courtland.

Completed applications for the VFB Ambassador, Poster Contest, Photo Contest and Outstanding Young Agriculturalist will be accepted through May 15 at the Southampton County Farm Bureau office.

Stacie Cutchins

Courtland