Dickinson County Farmers: A Legacy of Love for Our Land

Dickinson County’s agricultural powerhouses are not just resources – they’re the lifeblood of our community!

Every U.S. farmer is a titan of production, churning out a staggering 2.2 quadrillion pounds of food and fiber annually – enough to nourish a staggering 168 people each year! That’s not a typo – it’s a mind-boggling amount that dwarfs millions, billions, and even trillions.

We take these agricultural blessings for granted every day. From the sturdy baseball bats we swing to the comfortable shoes on our feet, the crisp paper in our hands, and even the essential hygiene products in our cabinets, agriculture touches every aspect of our lives. Don’t forget the very foundation of our well-being – the nourishing food on our tables!

And the best part? American farmers make this abundance incredibly affordable. We dedicate a mere 10% of our annual income to food, a stark contrast to nations like the Philippines, where citizens grapple with spending a whopping 38%.

But here’s the surprising truth: farmers see a paltry 19 cents for every dollar spent on food. Back in 1980, their share was a much fairer 31 cents.

Dickinson County farmers are more than just producers – they’re environmental champions. They’re the guardians of our soil, the protectors of our air and water, and the stewards of our precious wildlife habitats. Their commitment to sustainable practices ensures a healthy future for generations to come.

Let’s celebrate these incredible agricultural heroes!

Each year, the Dickinson County Conservation District presents awards to county landowners for implementing conservation practices that exemplify a commitment to stewardship of our natural resources. Awards are presented at the Annual Meeting in February and recipients are recognized in a special supplement to the Abilene Reflector-Chronicle. Each of the awards is dedicated to a conservation practice that strives to conserve and promote healthy soils, water, forests, and wildlife.

Award winners are selected from a group of landowners nominated by the Dickinson County Board of Supervisors, partner organizations, and other area landowners.  To be eligible to win the award, nominee must implement one or more specific conservation practices in Dickinson County, must own land in Dickinson County, and must not have been a winner the prior year.

Nominate your favorite farmer today!  Nomination may be made by phone at 785-263-2787 extension 332, by email to cindy.montgomery@usda.gov.

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