Hundreds of Barton County fourth graders descended on the Ron and Debbie Koelsch farm west of Great Bend Wednesday. They were taking part in the annual Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Kids Ag Day.

This is an event designed to give kids a chance to see how a farm works. It also gives them a glimpse into what it takes to put food on their table and clothes on their backs.

This is an important lesson. Although this is a rural area, many of these youngsters have lived their lives in town, only seeing farms as they pass them on the highway.

From the nation’s earliest days, farming has held a crucial place in the American economy and culture. That couldn’t be any more evident than it is around here.

Early in the nation’s life, farmers were seen as exemplifying economic virtues such as hard work, initiative, and self-sufficiency. American farmers owe their ability to produce large yields to a number of factors. The American Midwest has some of the richest soil in the world.

Sadly, many children don’t understand this. That is why it is refreshing to see area businesses, Barton County Farm Bureau and area farmers join the chamber in putting on this celebration of agriculture.  

Ag Day this year marked the 23rd installment of the event. We can only hope that it continues to spread the word about how crucial this industry is to our lives and livelihoods.

Dale Hogg