Arizona Agriculture Connection: Bridging Urban and Rural Communities through Farming
Welcome to the Arizona Agriculture Connection, a podcast by the Maricopa County Farm Bureau that delves into the world of Arizona's agriculture. My name is Nicole Clements, the executive director, and I am thrilled to be your host on this journey through the fields and farms of Arizona. This platform is much more than an agricultural narrative; it's a home for farmers, ranchers, food enthusiasts, budding agriculturalists, and anyone curious about how the food on our plates connects to the farms it originated from.
Discovering Arizona's Agricultural Diversity
Our podcast aims to present a comprehensive view of the agriculture sector in Arizona, uniquely positioned at the crossroads of urban and rural operations. This diversity is crucial as it allows us to explore various topics, from agricultural technology and policy to food preparation and more.
You can catch new episodes every Wednesday on your preferred podcast platforms. Arizona Agriculture Connection is proudly hosted by the Maricopa County Farm Bureau and generously sponsored by Paloma Ready Mix and Materials, an ardent supporter of agriculture and community initiatives. Make sure to subscribe and share your favorite episodes with your network!
A Broader Reach: Who Should Tune In?
One might wonder: Is this podcast solely for farmers and ranchers? Absolutely not! Farm Bureau supports all aspects of agriculture, which includes small producers, urban agriculturalists, along with traditional agriculture and anyone eager to learn where their meals begin. Whether you're a farmer seeking crucial industry insights or a consumer interested in understanding the agriculture happening right in your back yard, Arizona Agriculture Connection is your resource for clear and engaging information.
Highlighting Maricopa County's Agricultural Impact
Maricopa County beautifully represents the diverse tapestry of Arizona’s agriculture. Traditional agriculture remains foundational, while urban agriculture flourishes in unexpected spaces. This coexistence is vital for the long-term stability and evolution of our state’s food systems.
From alfalfa to unique crops like fairy tale eggplants, Maricopa County farmers support the local economy through both food production and job creation. According to the USDA agriculture census, Arizona's agricultural sector contributes a staggering $30.9 billion to the state's economy and provides employment for 160,000 residents. During the pandemic of 2020, the essential nature of agriculture became undeniably apparent, spotlighting the need for constant innovation and support.
Advocacy and Education: A Dual Mission
The Maricopa County Farm Bureau is dedicated to closing the gap between the food system and consumers through numerous events. Our recent AgFest at the Capitol was a crucial opportunity to share the breadth of our local products with legislators, ensuring those who shape our agricultural policies have a grounded understanding of what goes into your food.
It's vital that decision-makers understand the impact of their votes on food production and consumer access. As your local agricultural voice, we are committed to facilitating that understanding.
Get Involved and Stay Informed
For more information on how you can be a part of this vibrant community, visit our website at MaricopaCountyFB.org. Learn about involvement opportunities and submit topics you’re interested in.
Remember, Farm Bureau has a place for you! Subscribe, leave a review, and share our episodes with your friends on social media. To continue supporting our agriculture producers and this podcast, a special thank you goes to Paloma Ready Mix and Materials.
Join us every Wednesday, wherever you get your podcasts. Until next week, this is Nicole Clements, your host at Arizona Agriculture Connection—bringing you closer to the stories of Real Families, Real Farms, and Real Food.
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