Huron County farmer and GreenStone customer, Rita Herford was recently honored by the White House as a “Champion of Change.” Herford was one of 11 women across the country recognized for the honor.
A fifth generation farmer, Herford and her mother, Debbie, step-father, Allen and brother, Eric use sustainable farming practices to grow wheat, sugar beets, dry beans, corn, and soybeans on 4,400 acres. According to The White House press office, “Rita’s passion for agriculture has led her to share her farm’s story with local groups such as Rotary Club and on social media to help educate consumers about how modern day farmers grow safe, quality and affordable food for their families and others.”
Herford says traveling to Washington, D.C. was an exciting experience and she is honored to be in a position to promote modern day agriculture. “Rita is very deserving of this honor,” said Brain Polega, financial services officer at GreenStone Farm Credit Services. “She is an inspiration for all young farmers, particularly young women wanting to pursue a career in the agricultural industry.”
Although experience was a big part of her success, Herford recommends that young people interested in a career in agriculture get formal training as well. “It is important to learn the science behind what you are doing,” she said. “Go to school and learn all you can, and then start working and keep learning. Find someone who can inspire you and believe in you.”
Herford credits her family for giving her the support she needed to pursue her passion for farming. “My step father believed in me more than I believed in myself,” she says. “He was never afraid to let me do things on the farm. He let me get in the tractor and go.”
The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire their community.
