Honoring agriculture at Farmers' Share breakfast

Many people, especially those in urban areas, do not fully realize what it takes to feed our nation. Today, the typical American spends only about 10–13% of their household budget on food (according to the US Department of Agriculture, USDA). By comparison, that figure was nearly 40% in 1900 and around 30% in 1950. Over time, the share of the consumer food dollar that goes back to the farmer has steadily declined. According to the USDA 2024 data, today's farmer receives only about 18.5 cents of every dollar spent on food purchased for the home (groceries); however, the farmers' share for all food spending (including restaurants, process foods, and beverages) is 6 cents for every dollar… and for a crop farmer it is only 2.5 cents on every dollar spent. While farmers produce the raw material for food, most of the final value (cost to consumers) goes toward processing, transportation, packaging, distribution, marketing, and retail costs. Even though farming is beginning of the food system, the amount it receives from the final price is relatively small, affecting farm profitability. To help raise awareness of this reality, the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee has proudly hosted the Farmers' Share Breakfast for the past 36 years, reminding the community of the vital role agriculture plays in our daily lives. This year's Farmers' Share Breakfast will be held on June 11 at the Old Millstream Centre on the Hancock County Fairgrounds. Doors will open at 7:00 a.m., with breakfast served shortly thereafter. A brief program will follow and conclude before 9 a.m. True to farm tradition, attendees can expect a hearty meal featuring meats, eggs, potatoes, and fresh breads. The morning program will showcase the next generation of agricultural leaders, as District FFA Public Speaking winners present their award-winning speeches. This will be followed by an update on the past year in agriculture from the Hancock County OSU Extension Office. The program will also highlight local students who have earned scholarships supported by the Chamber's Agribusiness Committee—funded in part through their annual whole-hog sausage sales. Another special recognition during the event is the Small Business Award in Agriculture — given to an individual or business within the agriculture industry who has demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, and leadership in their operation. The highlight of the morning, however, is the induction of new members into the Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame. Since 2006, four individuals each year have been honored for their significant contributions to agriculture — whether through farming or related industries — and for the lasting impact they have made in Hancock County. Tickets are required to attend the Farmers' Share Breakfast and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are $7 each and are available at: · The Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce (123 W. Main Cross St.) · OSU Extension Hancock County Office (7868 County Road 140, Suite B) · Online at the Chamber's event registration page Before closing, here are a few key facts about American agriculture from the USDA Census of Agriculture (2022) and the American Farm Bureau Federation: · Farm and ranch families make up less than 2% of the U.S. population · There are approximately 1.9 million farms, and 95% are family-owned · About 30% of farmers are beginners, having farmed less than 10 years · Women represent 36% of all farm operators, and 40% of beginning farmers · U.S. farmers produce enough to feed 169 people annually · By 2050, global food demand is expected to rise significantly, requiring 70% more food production · Farming contributes about 1% of U.S. Gross Domestic Product · The U.S. maintains a positive agricultural trade balance, exporting more food and fiber than it imports · Farm programs cost Americans only pennies per meal and make up less than 0.5% of the federal budget In closing, farmers face challenges year after year — weather extremes, pests, fluctuating markets, and evolving regulations. Yet they continue to produce more food on fewer acres — thanks to technology and innovation, farming efficiency and improvements, and a farmer's sheer determination and grit to flourish. Despite their essential role, farmers receive only a small portion of what we pay for food. The Farmers' Share Breakfast is an opportunity to recognize, appreciate, and celebrate those who sustain us every day. Join us in honoring Hancock County's rich agricultural heritage and the people who make it possible. Ed Lentz is agriculture and natural resources educator with Ohio State University Extension — Hancock County.