Mercer: Farmers Always Looking To Improve The Ecosystem

Wednesday is Earth Day, and this year marks 50 year since the observation was put on the calendar. There are some in the non-agriculture world that say farmers don’t care about the environment and are destructive to the planet's overall health.

Many in the farming community will tell you that’s not true.

Rob Mercer of Mercer Estates in the Horse Heaven Hills says for the Ag industry, conservation, stewardship and sustainability are the top priorities day in and day out. He said the Ag community needs to do a better job discussing stewardship and the fascinating improvements farm technology has made over the last 30 years.

“Water application improvements chemical and fertilizer input improvements that have made huge environmental improvements and ecosystem improvements to America’s farming operations.  It’s hugely important.”

Mercer added many in the non-farm community don’t appreciate the level of science and innovation that goes into agriculture sustainability and conservation. Along those lines, Mercer said many believe farmers are behind the times when it comes to how to operate efficiently.

“Farmers are on the forefront on trying to improve the environment we live in.  We live in our environment everyday ad our kids do to.  And that’s a factor that’s extremely important.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com