Preserving Rural America
Rural communities are known for their deep local roots and pride in making an honest living, which makes up much of the producer population in America. The word rural can be defined as relating to, or characteristic of the countryside, rather than city or town. One of the greatest assets of this population is the history of their culture that ties them to the land. Many farmers and ranchers have been making agriculture their way of life for generations, and fully intend to continue that lifestyle in the future.
~14% of the U.S. population live in rural America (Investing in Rural Prosperity)
39.4% of the ND population is considered rural (North Dakota Census Office)
36 of North Dakota’s 53 counties are considered frontier (<6 people per sq. mile) (Rural Health Information Hub)
It’s no secret, people like to concentrate in regions with more opportunities including job availability, population diversity, and entertainment. Consequently, businesses and marketers tend to direct their resources to locations like these. Urban locations have advantages that rural populations don’t tend to have access to, sometimes even their sense of lifestyle security. What many fail to understand is that much of the urban lifestyle security comes from the resources made available by rural communities.
Unfortunately, rural communities are diminishing as urbanization continues to expand across the United States. Without the economic contributions of rural communities many aspects of urban society would be difficult, or even impossible.
Investing in Rural Prosperity is available by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis in collaboration with the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and helps individuals in rural communities strive towards economic prosperity. The intent of this book is to introduce community and economic development while outlining a framework to stake initiative and seize opportunities, all the while acknowledging the contribution rural communities make to society.
So how can you help invest in rural communities to ensure their prosperity?
Get Educated!
Much of the population is unaware of the crucial role rural communities hold in the economy. Rural communities play a significant role in economic security, food production and natural resource production. Without food and energy, the progressive lifestyle of many Americans would be impossible. Consumers are challenged to decipher food labelling and media marketing methods aiming them at convenience, but you may prefer genuine farmers markets with local ingredients if you give it a try.
Support Local Businesses!
Many rural communities and their producers strive to maintain personal sustainability through their production abilities. Especially when consumers are influenced by modern challenges and choices from grocery store items to online purchases. By supporting local businesses, you are contributing to a family and a lifestyle. Before conveniently clicking “Buy Now” on Amazon, spend an extra minute browsing for local alternatives; the quality of business could surprise you.
Get to Know Your Food!
Consumers, as mentioned, face a lot of controversies when it comes to decision making. Grocery stores are stocked with processed foods and labeling that can be simply overwhelming. If consumers understand where their food comes from, they are more likely to make informed decisions and maximize the quality and value of their products. By reaching out to producers, you can minimize the competition and learn directly about the processes of food production. By doing this you not only cut out the middle-man but you ensure the quality of the products you’re receiving. Most producers are happy to tell consumers about their lifestyle and take pride in what they do.
Draw on the Strengths of Rural Communities!
The rural population is known for their deep roots in the community, which is a strength that many populations don’t get to experience. This sense of community often comes with deep pride and respect for others that could be considered family-like in nature. Supporting rural communities gives you the opportunity to form deep, meaningful connections with others. Community programs and services are offered through many outlets to encourage fellowship and teamwork. Most rural communities relish in the ability to experience the outdoors and get back to nature, including the foundation of life, agriculture.
When rural communities are valued and nurtured, they can flourish. These communities can be overlooked because they make up such a small portion of the population but sharing economic prosperity throughout communities can reassure resource sustainability for all.
For more information, and to find Investing in Rural Prosperity, click here.
