Respecting Tradition while embracing change—The U.S. Sustainability Podcast

Is farm talk boring?

My kids would probably answer with a resounding yes!

While farm talk might be considered boring, it is important for future farmers to understand the reasons for embracing change and the reasons for respecting tradition.

Some of the changes that have been made on Smith Angus farm were to ensure that our farm survives another generation.

If the prices in the grocery stores are any indication of where things are headed, farming knowledge could be very important in the near future for many people. 

Give a listen to this podcast from The U.S. Sustainability Alliance about Respecting Tradition While Embracing Change. My interview begins around the 15 minute mark, but Chip Council from Maryland has great insight as he is a 10th generation farmer!“In the United States, around 98 percent of farms are family owned and operated. And many of these farmers want to continue their family tradition by handing down their operation in better shape to the next generation. That takes hard work, dedication, and a continuous focus on doing what’s best for the land and the business.

”In the United States, around 98 percent of farms are family owned and operated. And many of these farmers want to continue their family tradition by handing down their operation in better shape to the next generation. That takes hard work, dedication, and a continuous focus on doing what’s best for the land and the business. In the latest episode of This is U.S. Sustainability, we hear from two multi-generational farmers – an eleventh-generation grains farmer from Maryland and the owner of a centennial cattle farm in Louisiana – about how they have moved with the times while staying true to their roots. We cover rotational grazing, no-till cultivation, water conservation, biotech seeds, and more. And we discuss why going back to the natural cycle is sometimes the best approach.”