America’s farmers and ranchers are the original stewards of the Earth. You understand the fragility of the land and work tirelessly to sustain and protect it to ensure its availability for generations to come. 

The 2012 United States Census of Agriculture counted 3.2 million American farmers, ranchers and foresters. That’s over 3 million responsible landowners and caretakers continuously looking for new and sustainable operating practices to help preserve our natural resources, while supporting an ever-growing population. 

Your use of precision agriculture technologies, along with other conservation practices, help protect drinking water and reduce soil erosion. Your efforts also help preserve and restore wildlife habitats, forests and wetlands.  The world relies on your stewardship for our well-being and recreation.

As we celebrate Earth Day on April 22, on behalf of the Colorado Farm Service Agency, I want to thank you for your role in taking care of the land and ensuring the air we breathe and the water we drink is safe and clean. 

To help you along the way, FSA is here to support Colorado agriculturalists through our many programs and services as you invest in your operations and protect our natural resources. 

For more information, visit www.fsa.usda.gov

Clarice Navarro is the Colorado Farm Service Agency State Executive Director.