Currently, I'm participating in a wonderful leadership development program! It is designed to prepare future leaders in agriculture. There are four sessions and a trip to Nashville. It has opened my eyes to the challenges facing agriculture today. I was aware of most of the issues, but I now have a better understanding of the depth of those issues.
Our first session focused on Media. We were given tips and pointers on how to create a positive image of agriculture to the public using the media. We went in-depth in how to communicate to the media. We were interviewed on camera on controversial topics. This was a very grueling process. We were asked questions that were meant to lead us to use negative "buzz" words. I was reprimanded for using the word "chemical" instead of "crop protectant." (So, is it "Helena Chemical" or "Helena Crop Protectant?" ;-) )
The next session found us in front of the camera again. This time, we had been given a topic and we had to take 2-3 minutes to explain that topic to the general public. The video was put on YouTube. Going into the session, we were told that we could be the only POSITIVE voice for agriculture some people hear. We were told that we would be surprised at how many NEGATIVE agricultural videos there are on YouTube. I wasn't surprised....I was AMAZED! Not only are there several videos putting a negative spin on agriculture, but there are a great deal of well-meant videos that are misinterpretted!!
The third session was spent learning about the legislative process at the state level. Politicians have to make several people happy....not a fun job! That session was meant to prepare us for the last session and the legislative visit to Nashville. During that session, we met with political figures. There was a county mayor, a city mayor, a county commissioner, the field rep for a US Senator, and a state Representative and Senator. I REALLY enjoyed this! More than anything else, I realized that I am SUCH a Democrat! I just can't help it.
We finished the program by visiting the capitol in Nashville. We sat in on a meeting of the House Agriculture Committee. We also met with our senators and representatives, as well as Ron Ramsey and Kent Williams. It was very enlightening!
I highly recommend the AgStar Program in West Tennessee for any Young Farmer & Rancher who would be interested.
