As a new year begins, goals are made, meeting season whirs in full force, and it’s also one of two cycles per year Oregon Aglink humbly receives dues from members across the state.
From the get-go 58 years ago, our association has been supported by producers from so many of Oregon’s diverse commodities all across the state. Back in 1966, Marion T. Weatherford’s idea behind bringing different growers together from different parts of the state was to help unite all of Oregon agriculture behind the promotion and education of agriculture in our state.
While the incredible variety of crops Oregon’s producers bring to market is certainly one of the strengths of our industry, it can also pose a challenge when producers become siloed into their respective circles.
Not only do we miss out on understanding other parts of agriculture in our state, including other commodities’ challenges, but there is undoubtedly strength in numbers and the founding members of our organization sought to bring everyone together to work to bridge the gap in understanding between those in agriculture and those removed from it.
As our organization grew, supporting businesses related to farming and ranching joined as members, such as processors, fertilizer suppliers, and equipment dealers among others. The mission to connect with Oregonians around the state is important to farmers and ranchers, and these businesses know how important it is to contribute to this work. Finally, professional service providers including accountants, attorneys, and lenders also have become such an important part of our work. These allied supporters are some of our biggest sponsors and donors to this day, enabling us to carry out our mission.
While it is absolutely vital for farmers and ranchers to engage with those unfamiliar with agriculture – or risk more misconceptions and mistrust making it increasingly difficult to farm or ranch in our state – it really does take everyone, from producers to suppliers to processors and beyond to expand the narrative about what Oregon agriculture is today. It takes engagement often and early, not just when we are trying to convince someone to vote in favor of agriculture or to support Oregon growers by buying a certain product.
Since our inception, membership has fueled what we are able to do – not only monetarily but also from a priority aspect.
The work has changed over the decades as society has evolved and yet there is still a need to connect Oregonians around agriculture. We all digest more information in today’s fast-paced world than ever before in human history. We’re far beyond the ancient times of town criers, but instead, we live in a time with access to the world’s history and collective knowledge is at our fingertips. It can be tricky to break through the noise.
By working collectively, understanding one another, and engaging in the work to build connections rather than divisions, we can build a better understanding behind the processes of food, fiber, and shelter in Oregon and appreciate their impact.
Mallory Phelan
Executive Director
Oregon Aglink