Volume 3 | Issue 5
March 13, 2026
A publication of the National Grange
Celebrating Agricultural Literacy Week: March 16–20, 2026 by Dr. Richard Stonebraker National Grange Lecturer
Grangers across the nation have a powerful opportunity to share the heart of agriculture with the next generation during the National Grange’s Agricultural Literacy Week, March 16–20, 2026. Organized through the National Grange Lecturer’s Department, this week-long celebration invites members to engage students, families, and entire communities in meaningful conversations about where our food comes from, who produces it, and why agriculture matters every day of the year. At its core, the Grange has always been an educational organization dedicated to strengthening communities and advancing agricultural understanding. Agricultural Literacy Week continues that proud tradition by encouraging local Granges to design creative and impactful experiences that connect people of all ages to the world of agriculture.
What Is Agricultural Literacy Week?
Agricultural Literacy Week is a nationwide effort focused on increasing awareness and appreciation for agriculture. During the week, Grangers are encouraged to: • Visit classrooms to share stories
about farming and food systems. • Partner with schools, libraries, and community organizations to lead discussions or demonstrations. • Host engaging, hands-on activities that illustrate the journey from field to fork. The purpose extends far beyond teaching agricultural facts. The goal is to build connections, bridge the gap between consumers and producers and help communities better understand the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals who make our lives possible.
Bringing the Story of Agriculture to Life
Agricultural literacy is more than knowing how crops grow or animals are raised. It is about fostering a broader understanding of: • Where our food, fiber, and fuel originate. • The science, stewardship, and care behind production. • The families and individuals who shape our rural landscapes. • The vital role agriculture plays in local and national economies. Whether reading an agriculturethemed story to a classroom, organizing a farm tour, or leading a hands-on activity, each interaction plants a seed of awareness. These experiences help cultivate appreciation, spark curiosity, and
In This Issue Celebrating Agricultural Literacy Week: March 16–20, 2026 . . . . . . . . . 1 How Urban Hospitals Tap Rural Benefits - and Why It Matters . . . . . 2 National Grange Releases New Report Examining Diversion of Rural Health Care Dollars to Urban Hospitals . . 3 Grange Heirloom for March . . . . . . . . 4 Support the Grange Foundation through the Common Routes Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Grange Month is around the corner .................................5 Grange Store Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Hamp Watch: Where is our National Grange President? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Recipes from the Heartland . . . . . . . . 7 Grange Member Benefit: HarvestHosts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Grange Store: Guidelines for Grange Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
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