Passion About Agriculture Eases Multitasking for New York Farm Family
August 10, 2012
Across America people involved in agriculture come from big farms, small farms, and ranches. The diversity from California to New York is what makes agriculture great. One thing that all farmers and ranchers have in common is their passion for the important job of raising livestock and crops.
Jim and Andrea Schultz of Ransomville, New York, are very passionate about their role in agriculture. This couple may not be traditional farmers, but that doesn't stop them from playing an important role in agriculture.
"Wherever we are and through whatever we are doing, agriculture is important to us," said Andrea. "We try to utilize the opportunities we have to speak up for farmers and ranchers, and the benefits of modern agriculture in our community.
The Schultz's have a small herd of registered shorthorn beef cattle and raise hay to feed to their livestock. Both Jim and Andrea work full-time jobs in addition to the hours they work on their farm.
"We are one voice of many working in agriculture," noted Andrea. "Even though we are a small farm, our little contributions add to the diversity of the larger group.
This active couple participates in organizations at the local and state level. Both Jim and Andrea are involved in their county's 4-H program as volunteer leaders, and with St. Peter's Lutheran Church where they attend services. In addition, Andrea is just finishing up her term as Chairwoman of the New York Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee.
The Schultz's are proud that their two young sons are excited to be growing up with an understanding of agriculture. The boys are very active in showing the registered cattle they raise at local fairs and livestock shows.
"It is important to us that our children are raised with a sense of responsibility and that they are involved in taking care of the livestock," says Jim. "We exhibit at livestock events as a way to showcase agriculture and its importance in our community, just as Farm American highlights agriculture through its partnership with NASCAR."
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