What is Agriculture? Who does it affect? David Hayden does a great job of explaining these things and more on his blog. Fellow Oklahoma State Cowboy, David joins me today and shares why he is proud to be a part of the community bringing us safe, quality meat products. It’s another part of my month-long series highlighting the diversity in Agriculture. Why are YOU Agriculture Proud?

What is Agriculture? Agriculture is defined as the science, art or occupation concerned with cultivating land, raising crops and feeding, breeding and raising livestock; farming. By definition agriculture encompasses everything that drives our economy, from the food we eat, the clothes that we wear to the shelter over our heads. Without this great industry we would have nothing to sustain us as a society. From the poorest countries in the world to the richest EVERYONE relies on agriculture.

These are just a few reasons why I’m proud to be involved in agriculture. The Ag industry isn’t just a standard 9-5 job; it’s a way of life. It’s big…… Real Big! It’s an industry that provides us with the safest, most abundant food supply in the world!

Did you know that the average American spends about 5.7% of their income on food? When we compare that to Denmark at 10.7% or Indonesia at 40.9% our measly 5.7% is really not so bad! But it doesn’t just stop there, shelter, fuel, and textiles are all driven by the Ag industry. Often times we forget to look at the world’s whole picture rather than our own. Having the chance to participate in an industry that drives people of all nations and races isn’t just an opportunity, it’s a privilege.

Throughout the years I’ve had a hand in commercial livestock production and now work in the meat industry. These experiences have only fueled my passion for the industry. I find myself striving to promote our industry through my AgBlog and face-to-face consumer contact. With a passion and love for the industry as big as mine, it’s had to hold it all in.

There are just a few reasons why I’m Agriculture Proud!

To learn more about where your food comes from and Ag industry issues check out my blog and Facebook page, or find me on Twitter.

Published by Ryan Goodman

Ryan Goodman works in grassroots advocacy as a communications consultant with beef cattle farmers and ranchers across the United States. He is a proud alumnus of Oklahoma State University, with studies focusing on cattle reproduction and nutrition. Ryan's experience in the beef industry range from family farms and ranches in several states to large feedlots and non-profit policy organizations. Ryan is an avid trail and ultrarunner, proudly showing how beef can be an important part of a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Find Ryan on social media as @BeefRunner.