There is a legacy to farming
No matter if you are the fourth generation to farm a particular piece of our planet or this is brand new real estate to you, we've all inherited a legacy with the land.
The first settlers to this area walked the same ground the native peoples walked for generations before them, the bison grazed and pounded, the ducks nested and the perennial grasses grew.
To truly "farm" the land, one must remember what has come before, the benefits and the harm. How can we preserve the land, heal it of past sins and regenerate the life it once supported?
Those are the questions sustainable farmers ponder, the legacy of farming. What will they leave for their families? What will they leave for the soil? The wildlife? Their communities? I'm willing to bet all of us ask those same questions, whether we farm or not.
A few weeks ago, a woman asked me what specific thing she could do to help FARRMS grow farmers. I responded that we had a farmer who really wanted to attend "The Sustainable Farm Series" to learn how to farm sustainably and develop his farm business, but he didn't have the funds to attend.
She asked what it would cost to get this farmer to the class and then promptly wrote out a check for the entire $250.
As a result of her generous gift, one more farmer is learning to grow his soil biology, how to grow food for his community, manage his farm's resources, how to make a living from his small farm.
Not only has she left a legacy of generosity, she has contributed in a significant way to the legacy of this man's farm.
You may not be a farmer, but you can contribute to a legacy of clean, wholesome, safe food by supporting your local farmers.
FARRMS works every day to provide learning opportunities and support for small, sustainable farmers. If you'd like to join us, please call or email our office. We can help you leave your legacy for farming!