On Tuesday, June 27, 2023, the National Wheat Foundation and Maryland wheat grower Eric Spates, hosted a wheat farm tour for congressional staff and USDA employees. The attendees had the opportunity to explore the farm, witness the wheat harvesting process, and listen to speakers who specialize in the agriculture industry. The discussions centered around crucial topics such as risk management, conservation, pesticide programs, and environmental issues.
“Wheat harvest is an exciting time, no matter if you have experienced it 50 times or have never been in a wheat field before, being here on Spates’ farm to see first-hand the fields and combine running is always a memorable experience, “Bernard Peterson, Chairman of the National Wheat Foundation and a Kentucky farmer. “Wheat accounts for 20% of the calories consumed in the world so it is an extremely important food crop. This tour emphasizes the Foundation’s commitment to educating people about wheat and farming. We are thankful to Spates for having a real farm serve as a classroom during wheat harvest.”
The objectives of the tour were focused on strengthening participants’ appreciation for the intricacies of farming. It aimed to provide firsthand exposure to the meticulous stewardship practices concerning land, water, soil, air usage, and other vital natural resources crucial to the farm’s success.
Eric Spates, a dedicated board member of various state and national farm organizations, including the National Association of Wheat Growers and Maryland Grain Producers Association, expressed appreciation to the attendees who joined the tour to learn about wheat. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the complex issues that impact farmers on a daily basis and how these issues can ultimately affect our food.
The National Wheat Foundation extends gratitude to all of the participants, speakers, and experts who contributed their time and knowledge to the event at Spates’ farm. Special thanks are reserved for Eric Spates for his generous dedication and unwavering attention to making this tour a success.
