Dear U.S. Farmer,

Since Earth Day began 40 years ago, we’ve seen a tremendous shift in the preservation of our natural resources. However, little reflection has been given to the first environmentalist, the farmer.

While farmers were busy implementing solutions for feeding and fueling the world, non-ag experts have portrayed modern agriculture as an engine of ecological disaster. Those who favor science over conjecture know this accusation to be unfair and untrue. However, these absurd arguments have now moved into the political arena and are endangering a sector of our economy that employs one out of six Americans. 

We will need to feed 2.5 billion more people by 2050. The United States has the largest supply of arable land, greatest access to technology and most to gain from growing markets. Corn farmers play a significant role in modern, sustainable agriculture. This versatile crop is in the food we eat, cars we drive, packages we open, fabrics we wear and medicines we consume. The truth is farmers grow five times as much corn as they did in the 1930s on 20 percent less land and produce 70 percent more corn per pound of fertilizer than they did 35 years ago.

Farmers have a great and enviable connection with the earth. Their livelihood depends on it. Farmers, the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board ask you to celebrate this Earth Day by letting others know how your work protects the environment and maintains our standard of living. Engage in conversations with non-ag neighbors, utilize social media to establish a presence in popular culture and make sure your elected officials know your point of view.

Sincerely,

Tim Burrack, Iowa Corn Promotion Board Chairman
Don Elsbernd, Iowa Corn Growers Association President