There’s Never Been a Better Time to Be in Agriculture

Recently, I was invited to participate as a guest speaker at Boot Camp — a yearly event orchestrated by the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) that is held in Kansas City, Missouri. It is a wonderful program for anyone who is new to working in agricultural communications. Boot Camp gives attendees an in-depth overview on the basics of agriculture and farming. They hear from actual farmers and others working in the agriculture industry and learn how to effectively communicate with these audiences and stakeholders.

It was an honor to lead a session on “Trends in Ag” which allowed me to showcase what a momentous time it is to be working in the agriculture sector. Some of the many exciting things happening in the industry right now include:

• The technological advances continually occurring in the precision ag environment, including artificial intelligence being used to control pests and disease as well as finding the most optimal timing for planting and harvesting crops.

• Increased adoption of sustainable farming practices, including:

  • Implementation of regenerative agriculture practices to build more organic matter back into the soil as well as capture carbon from the atmosphere.

  • The increased understanding and use of biologicals as a naturally occurring way to control pests and disease.

  • The ability of biofertilizers as well as biostimulants, biopesticides and biofertility products to reduce dependence on traditional synthetic options.

• The upcoming farm bill with its focus on increased conservation and climate benefits, commodity program reference pricing, expanding crop insurance, increasing research in agriculture, food distribution and affordability and rural infrastructure development.

This year’s Boot Camp participants were a highly motivated and inquisitive group, so I know the future of ag communications is in good hands!

Please don’t hesitate to contact me to learn more about current and future agriculture trends and for more information on how OBP can help you strategically reach your target audiences with the right message at the right time and through the right channels.

Richard Fordyce is a fourth-generation corn, soybean and beef cattle farmer from Missouri. He previously served as the administrator for USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). In that role, he provided leadership for FSA and its mission to support agricultural production nationwide. Fordyce leads the business development team at OBP.