How to Celebrate National Ag Week (March 17-23, 2025)
National Ag Week is a time to recognize the incredible impact agriculture has on our daily lives. From the dairy products we enjoy to the many other foods our farmers grow, agriculture plays a crucial role in sustaining our communities and economy. National Ag Day, celebrated on March 18, falls within this week and serves as an opportunity to recognize the essential contributions of farmers and agricultural professionals. Whether you're looking to support local farmers, educate yourself or others, or simply enjoy delicious dairy products, here are five meaningful ways to celebrate National Ag Week.
1. Thank Farmers with Your Dollars
One of the most direct ways to show appreciation for agriculture is by supporting local farmers with your purchases. Choose dairy products, meats, and produce from local farms, farmers' markets, or farm stands. Consider subscribing to a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, where you receive fresh farm products directly from a local farm. By buying from local farms and dairy producers, you help sustain the agricultural community and keep your food dollars local.
2. Participate in Agriculture Literacy Week
Agriculture Literacy Week (March 17-21, 2025) is a great opportunity to promote agricultural education in schools. Volunteers, including farmers, agricultural professionals, and community members, will visit classrooms across New York to read "The Pie That Molly Grew" and engage students in hands-on activities related to food and farming. You can get involved by volunteering to read, donating books to local schools, or encouraging teachers to incorporate agriculture-themed lessons into their curriculum.
3. Make a Farm-to-Fridge Meal with Your Family
Food is the best way to connect with agriculture firsthand. Celebrate Ag Week by making a meal featuring locally sourced ingredients, especially New York dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. Visit a farmers’ market or grocery store that stocks local products and create a meal together as a family. This is a fun way to appreciate where food comes from while also supporting local farmers.
4. Visit and Learn at a Local Dairy Farm
Dairy farms are an essential part of New York agriculture, and Ag Week is the perfect time to see one up close. Many farms offer tours where visitors can meet the farmers, learn about daily operations, and even see how milk is produced. These tours provide a glimpse into the dedication, technology, and care that go into running a dairy farm. Most tours offer a great learning experience for all ages.
5. Try a New Locally Grown or Produced Food
National Ag Week is a great excuse to explore new dairy products or locally grown foods you haven’t tried before. Pick up a locally made cheese, a new yogurt flavor, or farm-fresh ice cream from a nearby creamery. Trying something new can be exciting and is a great way to expand your palate while also supporting local farmers. You might just discover a new favorite treat or a new household staple.
6. Celebrate and Support Agriculture All Year Long
National Ag Week is just one week out of the year, but agriculture impacts our lives every day. By making small, intentional choices like purchasing local dairy, supporting agricultural education, and learning more about where your food comes from, you can celebrate and support farmers all year long. However you choose to participate, your appreciation and involvement help sustain the hardworking farmers who provide for us all.