One of the farmers featured in the documentary “Farmland” says being willing to step forward for agriculture can make all the difference when it comes to connecting with consumers about food and feeding their families. That thought comes from Georgia farmer Leighton Cooley.
“We take every chance that comes along to let visitors see our farm,” Cooley told Farm Bureau grassroots leaders at a luncheon during the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 96th Annual Convention and IDEAg Trade Show. “It was a family decision to share our story,” Cooley said. He raises chickens, beef cattle and hay.
Reaching consumers through “Farmland”, a documentary that takes an intimate look at the lives of several farmers and ranchers in their 20s, all of whom are responsible for running their farming businesses, was an opportunity Cooley “never dreamed of.” He participated in the film – “a great experience” – because he wanted to play a part in helping consumers who had never stepped foot on a farm learn about what farmers do.
Cooley was a member of AFBF’s national Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee from 2009-2010.