Farmer Appreciation: Thank You for the Fall Harvest

Nebraska’s number one industry is agriculture. Farms and ranches have stood strong for generations because of strong family bonds within the business. Known for having a high-level work ethic and strong family values, these families make Nebraska a place where high quality foods are produced to feed the world.

Well into the Fall Harvest, and entering National Gratitude Month, the Thayer County Economic Development Alliance (TCEDA) is showing gratitude and appreciation for the farmers of Nebraska and Thayer County. Their dedication, hard work, and long hours during the spring and summer months make for the rewarding harvest we have now.

According to the Nebraska Crop Production Report, as of October 11, 2024, corn, sorghum, soybean, dry edible bean, sugarbeet, and alfalfa hay are forecast up from last year, with an increase in area for harvest. This is all made possible by the farmers and ranchers of Nebraska. 

Thayer County Farms

Thayer County is home to 437 farms and many are generational. The ag industry is Thayer County’s main economic driver. With cattle and corn being the top farm commodities, it’s no surprise that Thayer County is also home to unique operations like Free Day Popcorn, Hintz Produce, and a variety of other farm-to-table producers.

The Census of Agriculture releases its report once every five years. As of 2022, each of Thayer County’s 437 farms averaged over $260K in net cash income from operations. The report also indicated that nearly 52% of current producers are between the ages of 35 and 65, and about 30% are female.

National Gratitude Month

In October, Deshler FFA celebrated farmers with its annual Harvest Farmer Appreciation Meal, offering farmers a bagged lunch in appreciation for the work they do. TCEDA thanks Deshler FFA for such a wonderful way of supporting Thayer County farmers.

Appreciation continues as we move into National Gratitude Month. Being that November is also the month of Giving Thanks, and National Entrepreneurship Month during the Fall Harvest, it’s the perfect time for all to thank farmers and ranchers for a job well done!

Here are some ways to celebrate National Gratitude Month:

• Express thanks to local businesses and loved ones.
• Volunteer in the community or at a local farm/ranch.
• Send handwritten notes of appreciation to your favorite farmer.
• Share on social media about the great farms in your community.
• Pay for a farmer’s meal or coffee.

In whatever way you choose to celebrate and thank our farmers for their service to the community and nation, do it with joy in your heart. These men and women are truly laboring with love and deserve it in return.