Next week is 'Farm Week at the Library'

The foundation of our well-being in general depends on the domestic production of food. Our farmers and ranchers provide us with an abundant, nutritious food supply throughout the year.
In recognition of this achievement, members of the Rock County Farm Bureau and Rock County Library will celebrate Farm Week next week.
On Monday, March 21, stop in for giveaways and coloring contest sheets. Patrons are encouraged to bring in farm toys and/or wear farm shirts and tell library staff about the items.
On Tuesday, March 22, join the farm scavenger hunt at the library.
On Wednesday, March 23, at 10:30 a.m. a special story time will feature guest farmer Peter Bakken of rural Beaver Creek.
On Thursday, March 24, at 4 p.m. enjoy the classic farm movie “Charlotte’s Web,” with snacks provided.
Farm Week wraps up Friday, March 25, with Bronwyn’s 10:30 a.m. story time. Coloring contest winners will be announced along with book giveaway winners.
Among other things, Farm Week at the Library will celebrate the productivity and efficiency of ag producers as they continue to maintain a stable supply of food in our communities.
Their dedication and skill levels have overcome a difficult marketplace, weather extremes and plant and animal pests and diseases.
Their effective natural resource management increasingly provides crucial environmental benefits to a growing area of sensitive water supplies.
Farm families achieve these successes despite receiving a steadily smaller portion of the retail grocery dollar.
According to new U.S. Department of Agriculture data, in 1973 farmers and ranchers received approximately 30 cents out of every dollar spent on food. By 2018 the share farmers and ranchers received had declined to approximately 10.4 cents.
The pattern remains the same for this year. Off-farm costs – processing, packaging, transportation, wholesaling and retailing – account for the majority of the food prices consumers pay.
Most of the recent increases in retail food prices have been the result of higher prices of energy needed to process, haul and refrigerate food.
Our bountiful domestic food supply is the product of skill and dedication. We invite readers to join us in celebrating the farmers who grow our healthy and nutritious foods.