February farewell: A month of recognition and celebration

As we bid farewell to February, I find myself aching for the warmth and promise of spring in the heart of middle America.

But before I say a final goodbye to the shortest month, it is important to reflect on the cultural, historical and downright enjoyable celebrations that make February stand out.

This month brought us Groundhog Day, Valentine’s Day and a time to honor the legacies of our nation’s leaders. We recognized George Washington and celebrated U.S. presidents, both past and present.

February also brought awareness to heart disease in women, encouraging us to wear red on the first Friday of the month to show support and raise awareness.

We celebrated National FFA Week by honoring the important role that agricultural education and leadership development play in shaping young people’s futures.

Of course, February is also the time when we remember the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. In May 1862, Lincoln signed legislation that created the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

History tells us that his main goal was to support the farmers whose work was vital to supplying the Union army during the Civil War.

The USDA aimed to address critical issues of the time, including crop diseases, soil depletion and the need for better farm equipment. It also focused on researching and promoting the best seed varieties.

President Lincoln understood that agriculture was the foundation of American society. By prioritizing the needs of farmers, he believed the USDA would help sustain the nation’s strength and ensure the growth of its most valuable resource — its people working the land.

This department, founded during a time when most Americans made their living in agriculture, would play a crucial role in supporting rural communities and promoting agricultural progress.

February is also Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of Black individuals and communities throughout history.

In the realm of agriculture, Black Americans have had a profound impact, shaping the farming landscape and agricultural traditions in the United States.

During slavery, millions of Black people were forced to work on Southern plantations, where their labor was vital to the production of crops like cotton, tobacco, rice and sugar. Although they were denied recognition or compensation, their contributions were crucial to the establishment of U.S. agriculture.

Even under such brutal conditions, many enslaved men and women were highly skilled farmers, horticulturists and innovators.

A notable example is George Washington Carver, whose work with peanuts and crop rotation helped restore soil depleted by monoculture farming.

Carver’s research contributed to sustainable farming practices, crop diversification and agricultural education, leaving a lasting impact on American agriculture.

Black Americans have also helped shape the agricultural traditions and food culture of our country. The preservation of heritage crops and recipes continues to influence the food we eat today.

Until next time, February — but seriously, could you ease up on the snow, ice and subzero temperatures?