There was a time when a journey over the river and through the woods to Grandmother's house brought city dwellers back to their agricultural roots. It really wasn't that long ago that a majority of Americans had at least one close relative on a farm or ranch. Those severed ties to agriculture mean urban children grow up with little understanding of how food and a myriad of other products are produced and processed.
Agricultural literacy means understanding the interdependence between all consumers and agriculture.
Through NJAA's live-animal demonstrations, the children were shown how cattle are readied for exhibition and told about how cattle are raised and cared for on the farm and ranch. It reinforced my belief that we don't do enough to help educate people outside of agriculture about our industry. In a hands-on demonstration, fourth graders learn about tools of the cowboy's trade. Sharing that belief is Angus breeder Tim Nollette, Nenzel, Neb., who wears two hats. In addition to ranching, Nollette is a science teacher.