Farm watch: Fair's debut brings up fact -- agriculture is important here

The Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair is full of fun, from livestock shows and daring acts of skill to the feast of food waiting for eager eaters.

But there is a serious side, too, and today's debut of this year's event should remind all of Wayne County of an important fact -- and one that could affect this county's future.

Agriculture is not just something to enjoy at the fair every year. It is big business around here.

There are many, many farmers and livestock producers who are doing the work that creates the food that we eat every day. And there are many agriculture-related companies here, too, employing local residents.

Mount Olive College even recognized the importance of agriculture, adding a whole school that teaches young people the skills they need to find jobs and to succeed in this field.

But often, as residents, we forget just how important this industry is to our well-being now and in the future.

Keeping it healthy means not only paying attention to legislation that could harm it, but also encouraging young people to make the choice to continue to farm their family's land.

So enjoy the fair, but remember there is real meaning and importance behind it.

Published in Editorials on September 26, 2013 10:35 AM