USFRA Seeking Next Faces Of Farming And Ranching

Through the Faces of Farming & Ranching program search, the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) is looking for its third class of standout farmers and ranchers who are proud of what they do, strive to be sustainable and technology-driven, are eager to share their stories and are actively involved in sharing those stories in public and on social media to put a real face on agriculture and shine a light on the heart, personalities and values behind today's food.

"The impact of farmers and ranchers leading the conversation about how food is grown and raised is imperative in gaining trust with today's consumers," said USFRA Chairwoman Nancy Kavazanjian. "We've seen strides in sustainability and technology on the farm, yet misconceptions about genetically engineered (GE) crops, antibiotics and pesticides confuse consumers, so these ambassadors for agriculture are critical in setting the record straight and participating in these influential conversations about food production."

Farmers and ranchers who grow and raise an assortment of foods through various methods, on differing scales and across all regions of the country are encouraged to apply, as it is important to show American agriculture and all of its diversity.

"People genuinely want more information about farming and ranching, and talking to people as a representative of the industry sharing the facts, but also addressing their feelings, is an interesting part of this role," said Carla Wardin, one of USFRA's current Faces of Farming & Ranching and a Michigan dairy farmer. "I'd encourage everyone to apply, because not only does it help you improve as a communicator, but you can also make an impact on the consumers' view of today's agriculture being progressive and committed to responsible practices."

To apply for the Faces of Farming & Ranching program, farmers and ranchers must fill out an application form, available at www.FoodDialogues.com/Faces/Apply, and include a home video of less than three minutes describing themselves and their farm or ranch. Among other criteria, farmers and ranchers must have an existing social media presence, either through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and/or a blog. Information on the application process can be found at www.FoodDialogues.com/Faces/Apply. Entries will be accepted through July 10 at 11:59:59 PM CT.