Caring for the Land

Native Americans have a saying: "We don't inherit this earth from our parents; we borrow it from our children." In a very real sense, that is the philosophy of Minnesota farmers as well. Their children will live on the land and care for the animals long after they are gone. Today's farms, like their predecessors centuries ago, are "living legacies." The family farms of today will be passed on to the sons and daughters and grandchildren of those who work them now.

Minnesota farmers take pride in their commitment to a clean, healthy environment. They work closely with federal, state and local officials to protect our air, land and water resources. That means strict adherence to federal and state regulations for the management and handling of manure and other waste materials, and for the proper use and disposal of chemicals and pesticides.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture have important roles to play in developing and enforcing procedures to protect rural environments. Permits and licenses are required to use waste storage facilities. Guidelines developed by these agencies and the University of Minnesota form the basis for many of the procedures currently required by law.

As stewards of the land, farmers take their responsibilities seriously. Most farmers are dedicated conservationists. They have joined forces with leading conservation groups to support federal farm policies offering a balanced approach to preserving wetlands, which provide game and non-game wildlife habitats, reduce soil erosion and maintain water quality.

Also consistent with sound conservation principles, the byproducts which result from agricultural production are put to full and constructive use, minimizing waste and creating a wide range of products which are not only useful but which also enhance our quality of life.