Key Takeaways
- American AgCredit and Farm Credit of New Mexico merge, focusing on the growth of New Mexico agriculture.
- A $10 million Rural Roots Endowment was established to invest in the long-term viability, sustainability, and profitability of agriculture in New Mexico.
- The endowment aims to support the next generation of farmers and ranchers, as well as agricultural education and hunger relief in New Mexico.
- The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico will manage the endowment, with grant funds to be released starting in 2024.
- Last year, American AgCredit invested nearly $1.4 million in donations, sponsorships, scholarships, and special programs.
A merger between American AgCredit (AAC) and Farm Credit of New Mexico (FCNM) aims to strengthen and grow agriculture in New Mexico. To achieve this, American AgCredit is funding a $10 million Rural Roots Endowment, focused on investing in the state’s long-term viability, sustainability, and profitability of agriculture.
A Commitment to Community and Agriculture
Shacey Sullivan, executive head of communications and government relations at American AgCredit, emphasized the organization’s commitment to the communities where they operate. “Our customers — especially young and beginning farmers and ranchers — are paramount to the continued success of American agriculture and our nation’s food security,” Sullivan said.
The Scope of the Rural Roots Endowment
The endowment is designed to provide grants and direct funds to New Mexico agricultural organizations. It aims to support the next generation of farmers and ranchers through programs like FFA, 4-H, junior livestock, and scholarships. Additionally, the endowment will focus on protecting New Mexico agriculture, fighting hunger in the state, and continuing agricultural education.
Partnership with the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico
American AgCredit is partnering with the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico (CFSNM) to manage the endowment. Dr. Terra V. Winter, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer at CFSNM, said, “The Rural Roots Endowment is focused on the future—a commitment to supporting farmers, ranchers, and our neighbors who live and work in rural America.”
A History of Community Investment
Last year, American AgCredit invested nearly $1.4 million in donations, sponsorships, scholarships, volunteer hours, and special programs. This history of community investment sets a strong precedent for the impact that the Rural Roots Endowment is expected to have on New Mexico agriculture.
Photo by Artem Kniaz on Unsplash
