U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Indiana Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Julia A. Wickard is pleased to announce that Indiana’s own, Beth Tharp, of Coatesville, Indiana, will be honored by the White House and USDA as a “Champion of Change” for being a leader and doing extraordinary things to build the bench for the next generation of farming and ranching. Tharp along with 14 other individuals across the country are leading in their industries and communities, inspiring others who want to find careers and a life on the land, and providing food, fiber, fuel, and flora around the world.
Beth Tharp is a second generation farmer who, along with her husband and parents, owns and operates Legan Livestock and Grain, a commercial swine, corn, and soybean farm in West Central Indiana. She lends her voice and experience to local community boards representing agriculture to connect her community with her passion for agriculture.
Beth Tharp will be honored at the USDA program on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. ET. The program will feature USDA Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden, who will discuss efforts to ensure that beginning farmers and the growing ranks of agriculture – women, young people, immigrants, socially disadvantaged producers, returning veterans and retirees – have access to the programs and support they need. The event will include a discussion about how to continue growing and supporting the next generation of America’s farmers and ranchers.
The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals, businesses, and organizations doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their communities. To watch this event live, visit www.whitehouse.gov/live. To learn more about the White House Champions of Change program and nominate a Champion, visit www.whitehouse.gov/champions.
For more information on opportunities to support new and beginning farmers, visit www.usda.gov/newfarmers.
(photo by ERIC BERNSEE from Greencastle Banner)