Check the equipment, gas up the tractor, and to the fields they go.
Marshall County farmers will soon begin planting seeds that mature into nourishment for livestock and utilization in products like vitamins, cleaners, inks, plastics, wine and ethanol.
With today starting off National Agriculture Week, Bill Northey, Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture, says it's a wonderful opportunity to recognize the vital role farming plays in driving economic forces.
For example, it contributes $20 billion each year to Iowa's economy and supports a bounty of associated businesses.
"Iowa farmers are also leaders in helping protect precious soil and water resources that make our state so productive," he said.
Iowa's 92,600 farms lead the nation in corn, soybean, hog and egg production, according to Kent Thomas, board president of the Marshall County Farm Bureau.
The state is among the nation's leaders in environmental protection - investing nearly $435 million annually in conservation practices - and as well, first nationally with acreage devoted to grassy buffer strips which reduce runoff and protect streams.
"Iowa farmers are blessed with fertile soil and an environment that's ideal for growing crops and raising livestock," he said. "All Iowans can feel fortunate knowing their food is being grown and raised by their neighbors, farmers and whose families have worked the land for generations."
The MCFB will be providing donuts and rolls to farm equipment dealers throughout the region in celebration of National Agriculture Day, March 20.
People may also sign up to win a year's worth of free groceries by visiting www.farmersfeedus.org or www.iowafarmbureau.com.
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Contact Tammy R. Lawson at 641-753-6611 or tlawson@timesrepublican.com
