By Dayna Ghirardelli, Executive Director
As of late, it seems we’ve been under attack more than usual. We are constantly defending what we do which is feed and clothe people, maintain open space, protect natural resources, sustain habitat for wildlife, and did I mention feed people? I cannot understand why we must fight to produce food. I guess people are not hungry enough as they take for granted not only the abundance of food but also the choices of food that they find appropriate to dictate what others should have access to. Yet, there are so many who go hungry that would give anything to be guaranteed a daily meal.
The measure that will be on the ballot in November that seeks to, at the very least, restrict animal agriculture in Sonoma County will create more food insecurity in our community. If it passes, will be the demise of several multi-generational family farms, and serve as a stepping stone to a broader effort by animal extremists to eradicate animal agriculture, eliminating access to perfect and sustainable protein. There is a long road ahead when it comes to combatting this initiative and I implore everyone to participate by giving money, volunteering, endorsing against it, and being a voice to support and save Sonoma County family farms.
The Sonoma County Farm Bureau and the Farm Bureau Foundation of Sonoma County have launched a public awareness effort to remind our community that we are a county of multi-generational family farmers who care deeply for the animals that we raise, the crops we produce, and the land beneath it all. This endeavor is starting with this year’s parade circuit. Our inaugural parade was the famous Butter & Eggs Day Parade in Petaluma on April 20th, followed by Sebastopol’s Apple Blossom Parade on April 27th. My faith has been restored on account of these events.
While we feel as though we are on the battlefield constantly, our presence in these parades brought out the appreciation and support of Sonoma County farming and ranching as spectators clapped, gave us thumbs-ups and fist-pumps, and yelled “Yay Farmers!” One gentleman even took his hat off, bowed, and said “Thank you.” It was a reminder that our struggles stem from a few loud, self-righteous people but, by and large, we are admired and appreciated.
As if believing in what we do and protecting our precious lifestyle aren’t enough, advocating, promoting, and protecting farming and ranching for people to eat and thrive is worth it!
Contact Brooke at the office (707)544-5575 if you can join us in the upcoming parades:
Santa Rosa Rose Parade- May 18th
Healdsburg Future Farmers Country Fair & Twilight Parade- May 23rd
Penngrove Parade- July 7th
