Only 2% of U.S. citizens work in production agriculture. It is a foregone conclusion that virtually everyone reading this article is among that 2%. Therefore, we understand where food comes from, that beef cattle under our care and management have a higher standard of living than if they were released back into the wild. That beef production serves as a great example of sustainability and over the long-term the grazing ecosystem (consisting of soil, plants and cattle) can and does flourish when managed according to science and good animal husbandry. 

The point of this topic is to help us understand that the other 98% of our population are far removed from production agriculture and therefore have a limited understanding of that knowledge. 

Two to three generations ago, a much larger share of the U.S. population was directly involved in the production of food. As a result of our efficiency, technology and good management in a free enterprise economy, U.S. citizens spend a smaller percentage of their disposable income on food than any other country in the world. 

Currently, each American farmer or rancher provides the food for approximately 160 people. Accordingly, our high degree of efficiency has resulted in only 2% of our population being “needed” to produce food. The beef industry is not unique in this respect. The dairy, grain production and poultry industries have all dramatically improved production capabilities and efficiently over the past 50 – 60 years. The efficiency of production agriculture has created the perception that food can be taken for granted. 

Our business plan should include advocating for our industry and helping consumers (the other 98%) understand beef production.

How do we advocate for our industry?

Share your story. Engage with people and build relationships. Production agriculture is a way of life as well as a business. Connect and communicate your story, tell others about your business, what you do and the industry you are a part of.

Get involved. Join your county, state or national cattlemen’s associations and other organizations to promote agriculture.