By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Farm Bureau is spotlighting the rich diversity of farming in the state through its compelling docuseries, "Fields Apart: Rooted Together." This innovative project shines a light on the shared characteristics and challenges faced by farmers across both rural and urban landscapes in Illinois.
Brian Duncan, President of the Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB), emphasizes the importance of connecting producers of all types to learn from each other and build common ground amidst shared challenges. The series delves into various topics, including farming in urban areas like Chicago, agritourism opportunities, community support initiatives, and the role of Illinois universities in providing diverse agriculture education.
Alicia Nesbary-Moore, owner of Herban Produce farm in Chicago, underscores the significance of supporting hyper-local businesses to strengthen community ties and foster economic resilience. Mathew Heberling, a farmer near Taylorville, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of shopping local for food to sustain rural communities and combat the challenges posed by large chains.
Through firsthand accounts and personal stories, the docuseries illustrates how farmers across Illinois are strengthening their communities through agriculture, regardless of geographic location. By highlighting these efforts, the series aims to bridge the rural-urban gap and showcase the resilience and unity within the Illinois farming community.
As Mathew Heberling aptly states, "Regardless of how diverse our backgrounds are, the similarities hold us together." The docuseries serves as a platform for fostering connections and building a stronger, more resilient agricultural community in Illinois.
"Fields Apart: Rooted Together" celebrates the diversity of farming in Illinois while emphasizing the importance of collaboration, support, and community-building efforts across all facets of agriculture.
Photo Credit: Illinois Farm Bureau
Categories: Illinois, Education, Government & Policy