Contact:
Debra DeCourcy, APR
(317) 692-7873
(513) 405-5061
ddecourcy@infb.org

(Indianapolis) – February 21, 2017– Members of Indiana Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee joined more than a dozen Indiana State Senators and Representatives as a resolution was read today marking Feb.20-24 as Indiana Agricultural Literacy Week..

“We are delighted that our state legislature understands the value in educating people of all ages and backgrounds about the importance of farming and agriculture in the Hoosier State,” said Isabella Chism, INFB’s second vice president and chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee. “Today’s resolution greatly supports Indiana Farm Bureau’s efforts to improve awareness of agriculture – not only this week, but all year long.” 

The resolution highlights: the economic benefit agriculture brings to Indiana – more than $31.2 billion per year; the importance of educating our students about agriculture to ensure a safe and affordable food supply; and how an increased understanding of agriculture allows individuals to make informed choices about the foods they eat.

Also in attendance for the resolution reading were several volunteers from INFB’s Ag in the Classroom program, as well as representatives from Indiana agribusiness. Ag in the Classroom encourages education efforts in classrooms throughout the state by making aids and educational resources available to teachers in all Hoosier elementary, middle and high schools. Lesson plans, program guides and other tips are available at INFBAITC. Farm Bureau volunteers also visit classrooms across the state to teach students about farming and farm life. 

In addition to having this week recognized as Indiana Ag Literacy Week, INFB also adopted The Kid Who Changed the World, by Andy Andrews as its Book of the Year for 2017, which is designed to enhance the organization’s ag literacy programs.

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About Indiana Farm Bureau: Since 1919, Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has protected the livelihood, land, equipment, animals and crops of Hoosier farmers. It is the state’s largest general farm organization and a farmer’s strongest advocate. INFB works diligently to ensure a farmer’s very right to farm, because agriculture is so vital to Indiana’s economy.  Learn more at INFB.