Animal agriculture, row crops, farmers, ranchers, food, fuel, fiber and so much more make up the agriculture industry. Each person involved in agriculture gives character to the path between soil and salad, field and filet mignon. Jason Brown is a public relations and digital media specialist for The Communications Group. Often, when thinking about agriculture, the image of a field or a farmer comes to mind. An office in downtown Little Rock isn’t a setting typically associated with the agriculture industry. Public relations, communications and marketing are vital to every industry, even agriculture. Jason sat down to answer a few questions about how he’s involved with getting food from the farm to your table.
1. How are you involved in agriculture?
I work for The Communications Group, a full service marketing, advertising and public relations firm in downtown Little Rock. We work with the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board to provide communications support and have worked with the board since 2010. Personally, I provide public relations and digital media support to the board.
2. In your own words, what is agriculture?
Agriculture is the backbone of Arkansas. It’s the DNA of every Arkansan. It’s our common thread
3. Why do you think agriculture is important?
Arkansas agriculture feeds people and animals across the globe. Fifty years ago, the average farmer fed 26 people. Today, the average farmer feeds 155 people – a 500% increase.
4. What’s the one thing you want everyone to know about agriculture and farming?
Arkansas farming is a family business that supports Arkansas families. The farmers in Arkansas’ 75 counties bring an incredible economic impact to each of our communities. It’s our responsibility to support our farmers.
5. As someone in the public relations industry, in your opinion what’s the most important thing farmers can do to improve their relationship with consumers?
Farmers are the hidden heroes of our economy. When things get tough, farmers pull up their boots and head out to the field. We need to give consumers more opportunities to sit down and talk with farmers. These guys are scientists, they’re businessmen, and they’re historians of our culture and heritage. Take the time to find a farmer and take him or her to lunch. I guarantee you’ll learn something new.