President Barack Obama has proclaimed the week of September 18 through September 24 as National Farm Safety and Health Week. In doing so, the President challenged the agencies, organizations, businesses, and extension services that serve America’s agricultural workers to strengthen their commitment to promoting farm safety and health programs. Mr. Obama also urged Americans to honor our agricultural heritage and express appreciation to our farmers, ranchers, and farm-workers for their remarkable contributions to our Nation.

The President also encouraged farm and ranch families to embrace safe farming practices and to participate in farm safety and health programs. According to Mr. Obama, communities and neighbors can support local farmers by understanding the risks involved with farm work and the role everyone can play in preventing and responding to accidents.

In his proclamation, the President noted, farmers represent the best of the American dream — passing on proud traditions of hard work and commitment to their children. This week, we celebrate farmers’ contributions to the fabric of our Nation as they cultivate the products that sustain us, serve as stewards of our environment, and stand as the backbone of communities across our country.