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![NRCS This Week mast head](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090115225158im_/http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/news/thisweek/images/mastheaddshadow3.jpg)
I’m A Farmer – I’m Your Neighbor
![Oconee County NRCS district conservationist Heather Stephens coordinated a unique project to highlight local farmers and their produce during Farm City Week](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090115225158im_/http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/news/thisweek/images/oconeemed.jpg)
Oconee County NRCS district conservationist Heather Stephens
coordinated a unique project to highlight local farmers and their produce
during Farm City Week |
I'm a farmer – I'm your neighbor was the slogan for Farm City Week’s
Oconee County Conservation Partnership campaign organized by South Carolina NRCS
district conservationist Heather Stephens. After the Oconee Conservation
Partnership developed a plan to place photographs of over 40 farmers in five
local grocery stores during Farm City Week, Heather pitched the idea to the
local stores, interviewed local farmers, and helped create the displays.
The campaign signs not only included the farmer's photograph, but also provided
a description of their product and how it contributes to the well-being of
consumers. For example, when shoppers picked up a package of ground beef
for supper, they saw a local farmer – perhaps their neighbor – who was
responsible for producing the calves that ultimately yielded 118,000 pounds of
beef.
“Often the public is unaware of the amount of agribusiness in our county, or
our nation as a whole,” said George Grobusky, district chairman. “We felt it was
time to introduce local consumers to local farmers.”
The campaign highlighted beef cattle, broiler and breeder poultry, apples,
honey, crops, dairy, and timber operations. “Agriculture is still an important
part of our local economy,” said Heather. “As our county grows, it is important
to recognize that not only does the agricultural community provide food and
fiber for the nation, but also
protects and conserves its natural resources."
Your contact is Amy O. Maxwell,
NRCS public affairs specialist, at 803-765-5402.
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