Happy National Ag Day!
This year the theme of Ag Day is “growing a climate for tomorrow.” It’s an incredible opportunity to brag about agricultural production in the U.S. Why? Because modern agriculture is a leader in sustainability! Here’s the proof:
Beef. U.S. beef producers have reduced GHG emissions per pound of beef by more than 40%, while also producing more than 66% more beef per animal since 1961.
GMOs. Adoption of genetically modified crops has reduced chemical pesticide use by 37%, while increasing yields by 22%.
Soybeans. Over the past 25 years, soy growers have decreased energy use per tonne of soybeans by 46%.
Dairy. From 2007 to 2017, U.S. milk production used 30% less water, 21% less land, and had a 19% smaller carbon footprint.
Corn. Between 1980 and 2015, corn growers reduced soil erosion by 58%, energy use by 41%, and GHG emissions by 31%
Eggs. From 1960 thru 2010, egg production in the U.S. lowered its GHG emissions by 71%!! Today’s hens produce 27% more eggs and live longer than ever.
Wheat. Farmers have improved soil conservation by over 30% from 1980 to 2015.
Almonds. U.S. almonds are grown with 33% less water than 20 years ago.
U.S. agriculture is sustainable agriculture.
For those who may think that sustainable agriculture is a new idea, I have a book on my desk which outlines sustainable cropping systems research started in Lethbridge in 1910, Bretton in 1930 and Stavely in 1949. These initial sites are still maintained and have additional work added. They obviously did not have our technology and understanding but the intent was there. These sites are in Alberta Canada.
That’s fantastic! It really highlights to me that farmers have always done this. It doesn’t have to be forced or regulated (or have a fancy, trendy name). It’s part of agriculture.