Every Day is Earth Day for Hardworking Farmers and Ranchers

As the world celebrates Earth Day today, I thank the men and women who tirelessly cultivate 

Photo Pat Sullivan, Lubbockonline.com

the land that provides the food and fiber for all the earth’s inhabitants. Farmers and ranchers, I honor you today and every day for the immeasurable contributions you have made and continue to make.

Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “Cultivators of the earth are the most valuable citizens. They are the most vigorous, the most independent, the most virtuous, and they are tied to their country and wedded to its liberty and interests by the most lasting bands." 

That sentiment rings true today. Farmers and ranchers are the true cultivators of the earth and the original environmentalists. Our ancestors worked hard for us and we now work hard for the generations of today and tomorrow. We know that in order to achieve the same degree of lasting productivity and sustainability, this land we call home must always be protected.

Water conservation is one of the many ways to help preserve, and the Texas Water Smart coalition has great tips to help every Texan curb wasteful water usage.  Other ways to preserve include improving wildlife habitats and erosion protection so that there are beautiful lands left for the rest of us to enjoy along with our abundant, safe and affordable food supply.

On Earth Day and every day, be sure to thank our farmers and ranchers who preserve the environment, protect our food and improve our world. To learn more about what farmers and ranchers do for the environment, please visit: Agriculture is Your Culture.