American Farmland Trust partners with Smithfield Brand, Farmland to save the land that sustains us
American Farmland Trust, the organization behind the national movement No Farms No Food, announces its partnership with Farmland, maker of high-quality, popular consumer goods such as bacon and sausage, to save farmland and ranchland. Now through Dec. 31, 2019, Farmland has pledged to protect one square foot of American farmland for every Pure Farmland item purchased, by donating funds from these products to AFT to further its mission.
The loss of America’s farmland is an urgent issue. AFT’s “Farms Under Threat” report—the most comprehensive report ever released on the loss of farmland and ranchland in the U.S—revealed we are losing farmland at an alarming rate: 31 million acres lost between 1992 and 2012, 175 acres per hour, 3 acres per minute, lost forever. Land no longer available to produce the food, fuel and fiber that sustains our society.
“Our future depends on having enough farmland to both feed us and restore our planet. And this requires a holistic vision of the future: one that acknowledges farmland as irreplaceable infrastructure we cannot afford to lose; that sees farming practices that improve soil health as necessary for that land to serve us in perpetuity; and that views farmers as the stewards of that land, worthy of our fervent support –because at heart, what these farmers do is for all of us,” says John Piotti, president and CEO, AFT.
He continues, “This partnership will help consumers understand the threats to American farmland and further AFT’s mission of protecting the nation’s farmland and ranchland, promoting sound farming practices and keeping farmers on the land. We are grateful for Farmland’s support.”
Farmland has a long-standing dedication to working farmers and offers products that people can feel good about serving to their family. For every package sold in its new product line, Pure Farmland, Farmland will donate the cost of protecting one square foot of farmland, up to $140,000. These donations will help AFT continue to further its mission of not only protecting the nation’s farmland and ranchland, but also promoting sound farming practices and supporting farmers.
“For nearly 60 years, Farmland has relied on the tireless work of farmers to offer our loyal consumers products that they can trust,” said Megan Thomas, senior brand manager for Smithfield Foods. “As we enter this next chapter for our brand, we’re honored to partner with American Farmland Trust to further showcase the fundamental role our nation’s rich farmland plays in offering our consumers a wholesome protein option for every meal.”
For more information on Farmland and how to give back to American Farmland Trust, visit FarmlandFoods.com, Facebook.com/FarmlandFoods, or @FarmlandFoods. Farmland is a brand of Smithfield Foods.
