Yuma farmer stars in YouTube video

Taking advantage of new technology to share the agriculture story, the Arizona Farm Bureau recently posted three video stories about a Yuma farmer, a southern Arizona rancher and a northern Arizona rancher on the YouTube site.

John Boelts, Yuma farmer and president of the Yuma County Farm Bureau, said he appreciated the opportunity to put a spotlight on agriculture.

"We see this as one way to connect to the community, especially YouTube fans, and share our experiences as agriculturalists," Boelts said.

"In a world of 20-second sound bites, it's exciting to see real people depicting real experiences. A viewer is getting to see real people discussing real things that are important to all of us.

"Everyone has to eat. I hope they're interested in hearing from the people producing it."

Sharla Mortimer, who ranches with her husband Gary in Dewey, also was part of the first three video vignettes. In addition to raising cattle, the Mortimers also have a nursery. During her video segment, she highlights the couple's desire to stay in agriculture.

Pima County Farm Bureau President Stefanie Smallhouse, who ranches with her husband, Andy, in Redington, also contributed to the first series of Arizona Farm Bureau YouTube videos.

To view the video segments, go to YouTube and type in "azfb Meet" in the search window. You can also find the specific videos by doing a YouTube search for John Boelts, Stefanie Smallhouse or Sharla Mortimer.

Arizona Farm Bureau plans on regularly posting video vignettes of farmers and ranchers throughout Arizona.