Harvest clean energy to sustain farming operations

Iowans take immense pride in the commodities we produce that feed the world. Our resource-rich land allows farmers to support the rural communities that make Iowa a very special place to call home. Harvesting clean energy sources, like wind and solar, play a vital role in farming operations by diversifying income and ensuring family farms remain sustainable.

While some folks harvest traditional crops like corn or soybeans — or run a dairy operation like the one I grew up on — some may choose to harvest the wind or sun to power the world too. In doing so, these farmers and landowners are offered peace of mind with annual drought- and flood-proof land lease payments totaling $74 million. Between unpredictable weather and an unstable economy, this steady income stream helps keep farms afloat regardless of the conditions.

It is true what they say — farmers are the original conservationists. Farmers preserve the land, and clean energy is one way to do that. As time goes by and hardships are faced, farmers also adapt to market conditions and evolve with technology to be successful and everlasting.

I am proud that I was raised on a farm, and I am looking forward to carrying on that tradition into my adulthood and passing it on to the generations below me. I encourage young farmers to explore clean energy resources and learn how they may be an asset to their farms.

I wish everyone a happy and abundant harvest season!

Holly Schmitt

Past President, Iowa FFA