Voice of the Farmer Garden Celebrates Groundbreaking on National Ag Day
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Washington, D.C. (March 24, 2026) – Farm Journal Foundation marked National Ag Day in Washington D.C. with a groundbreaking celebration at the Voice of the Farmer Garden exhibit, locate
d at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s headquarters on the National Mall.
The inaugural event included remarks from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) Chief Aubrey Bettencourt. Bettencourt was joined by Steven Williams, Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman, Global Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and Corporate Affairs, PepsiCo, Farm Journal Foundation Maryland Farmer Ambassador, Belinda Burrier, and Farm Journal Foundation CEO Tricia Beal. The event included a brief groundbreaking ceremony, garden demonstrations, a partner showcase, and lunch.
The Voice of the Farmer Garden is a permanent learning exhibit that showcases the major crops grown in America and teaches visitors about agriculture’s contribution to U.S. food security, nutrition, economic growth, and more. The garden includes educational signage and an interactive mobile phone walking tour featuring videos of farmers from across the country who tell the story of agriculture in their own voices.
“Today, farmers represent less than 2 percent of the population, so consumers are more and more removed from the farm,” Farm Journal Foundation CEO Tricia Beal said. “The Voice of the Farmer Garden is an important platform for educating visitors about where their food, fuel, and fiber comes from, and the passion and hard work that go into feeding America. We are deeply grateful to the USDA and all of our partners for supporting this initiative and helping amplify the voices of farmers as they tell their important stories.”
Farm Journal Foundation has numerous events and activities planned for the garden this year, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence. The garden is open to visitors year-round, and is located outside the USDA Headquarters at Jefferson Drive and 12th Street, SW in Washington, D.C.
Media Contact
Whitney McFerron, Vice President of Communications
Farm Journal Foundation
About Farm Journal Foundation
Farm Journal Foundation is a farmer-centered nonpartisan organization working to advance agricultural innovation, global food and nutrition security, conservation, and rural economic development. The Foundation believes in a future where agriculture works for everyone – supporting strong farmer livelihoods, business growth, consumer access to nutritious, affordable foods, and the preservation of our country’s natural resources. Achieving this vision starts with conversations – bringing all voices to the table to discuss industry challenges and how innovation can unlock solutions that serve us all. To learn more, visit www.farmjournalfoundation.org.
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