Brian Brett is credited with writing, “Farming is a profession of hope.” It is one of my favorite reminders about the life I pursue. My bio notes I am a fourth-generation farmer in Eastern Washington who works in public policy advocating for farmers and ranchers. It is a balancing act to do my jobs. No two days are ever the same except for the shoe and clothing changes and the need to carry more than ...

American farmers and ranchers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. The stressors for farmers and ranchers are difficult for many in the general population to understand because many of them are difficult to quantify. However, they are not impossible to empathize with when taken a little at a time. Most Americans have felt the pinch of food prices, increased fuel costs, fear for the future of their children, ...