Bandera County Farm Bureau President Booker Young is celebrating the success of this year's Ag Day, which gave local fourth-grade students a firsthand look at the agricultural industries that help drive the county and state economies.
Held at the Mansfield Park Ag Barn, the annual event brought together agricultural organizations, businesses and volunteers to showcase the many products and resources that originate on farms and ranches.
“Agriculture is part of the foundation of sustainability,” Young said. “We are producing more with the same amount of input compared to 50 years ago. That’s all tied to climate- smart farming and innovative practices and efforts farmers and ranchers have implemented.”
Students rotated through exhibits focused on beekeeping, beef byproducts, wildlife management, horseshoeing, cotton production, mohair, soil conservation, dairy production, farm equipment safety and 4-H programs. The Bandera County Farm Bureau board of directors organized the event to help students better understand where their food, clothing and other agricultural products come from.
Young said today's farmers and ranchers are increasingly focused on conservation and efficiency.
“As farmers, we play a leading role in promoting soil health, enhancing wildlife habitat and conserving water and natural resources as we grow our crops and raise livestock,” he said.
Texas leads the nation in the number of farms, with more than 248,000 operations covering approximately 127 million acres. Agriculture remains one of the state's largest industries and contributes billions of dollars annually to the economy.
Young said events such as Ag Day help ensure the next generation understands the importance of agriculture in their daily lives and in communities across Texas.
“National Ag Day recognizes and celebrates the farmers and ranchers who work the land and help fuel America,” Young said.
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