Eustice has traveled the world and spoke of what he has witnessed.
“Starvation and hunger are very real,” said Eustice. “I’ve seen it firsthand. 16,000 people die every day from hunger-related causes. There has been a huge spike in food prices which have caused riots in several countries.”
Eustice spoke of Norman Borlaug, the Minnesotan who did extensive research in the field of agriculture, especially with varieties of wheat.
“He [Borlaug] saved a billion lives,” said Eustice. “Because of his work, India and Pakistan were able to double their production of wheat, helping them to be self-sufficient food producers.”
The hot topic of irradiated food was next on the agenda. Eustice mentioned opponents of irradiated food sometimes tend to use misleading information. He cautioned listeners to check the source of information.
“We all have a right to our opinion,” said Eustice, “but not to our own set of facts.”
Eustice was asked a question about the “pink slime” which has been in the recent news.
“It’s perfectly safe,” said Eustice. “The Minnesota Beef Council’s web site is a good source for news on it.”
Soil and Water Conservation District Board Supervisor Jurgen Peters presented Brian Jewison with this year’s conservation award. The award is given to a Waseca County landowner or organization who best exemplifies qualities of environmental stewardship, responsible land management and natural resource conservation. Jewison had worked extensively on his farm on the east side of Lake Elysian creating buffer zones and planting trees near the lake.
Jim Jirik from the Natural Resources Conservation Service recognized Jason Norton as this year’s Outstanding Young Farmer for Waseca County.
Next, Terry Hansen of the Waseca County Extension Committee announced that the Beckstrand family (Paul, Marijo, Jamie, Amy, Trevor and Travis) were selected for the Farm Family of the Year. They operate a beef operation near Waldorf and the whole family is heavily involved in 4-H.
