Down to Earth:
Agriculture Sustains Alabama
Alabama's farmers, foresters and ranchers believe in sustainable, conservation-minded production practices and work daily to protect the environment for future generations.
Down to Earth Fast Facts
Thanks to forward-thinking practices that reduce inputs, protect the land, produce healthy and sustainable products, and ensure the next generation of their family has the resources needed to farm, Alabama's farmers and ranchers work tirelessly to protect the environment and practice sustainable agriculture.
Carbon Emissions
U.S. Agriculture contributes just 10% to overall greenhouse gas emissions. Thanks to farmers' dedication to conserve natural resources, that percentage drops to -2% when factoring in additional carbon-absorbing practices.
Animal & Plant
Efficiency
Over the last 70 years, U.S. farms nearly tripled in production while resources used (including land, energy and fertilizer) remain stable.
Data &
Technology
Technology is integral to farmers: think smartphones, computers, GPS and more. Farmers can remotely manage operations through phone apps— whether turning on irrigation pivots or controlling temperatures in a poultry house.
Conserving
Natural Resources
Farmers and landowners participate in voluntary conservation programs, which preserve green spaces (grasslands, forests and wetlands) that absorb greenhouse gases.
Smart Land Use
Farmers are stewards of the land. They're smart with how they use, care for and protect the resources that have been entrusted to their care.
Sustaining for
the Future
Did you know that 97% of Alabama farms are family owned? Working with the future in mind, they use forward-thinking practices that reduce inputs, protect the land, produce healthy and sustainable products, and ensure the next generation of their family has the resources needed to farm.
"Sustainability means being resourceful and creative in how you use your resources. We want to leave things better for those of us who are coming behind us. "
Jordyn Upchurch
Rockin' U Farm · Clay County
