Bringing Agriculture to the Forefront - Kasydi Lucas

Hi there, I'm Kasydi Lucas, and while I didn't grow up on a ranch or multi-generation farm, agriculture has still shaped my life in lasting ways. I've worked in and alongside this industry for years -- as an advocate, communicator, and champion for the people who feed and fuel our communities. I'm a member of the Lewis and Clark County Farm Bureau, and proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with Montana producers who care deeply about their land, livestock, and legacy.

I joined the ACE program because I believe my role in agriculture is to help build understanding -- between rural and urban communities, between producers and policymakers, and between the people who grow our food and the people who enjoy it every day without always knowing the story behind it.

What drew me to ACE is the opportunity to sharpen my skills in communication and advocacy. I want to be a more effective bridge -- someone who can take the complexity and challenges of agriculture and make them understandable, relatable, and meaningful to those outside the industry. Whether it's speaking at a school, testifying at the legislature, or creating content that tells a producer's story, I want to help bring agriculture to the forefront in a way that's real and respectful.

After completing ACE, my leadership goals are rooted in connection. I hope to work more closely with my county Farm Bureau to elevate the voices of local producers, support educational events, and produce tools that help others feel confident sharing their stories. I'd also love to mentor others -- especially those like me, who may not have come from a traditional ag background but have found their calling in this work.

One issue I believe is critically important to the future of agriculture is the public perception of the industry. We're facing a time when fewer people than ever have direct ties to farming or ranching, and that distance has led to misunderstanding and mistrust. By participating in ACE, I'll gain the tools to engage more effectively with decision-makers, media, and consumers -- so that the narrative around agriculture reflects its realities, values, and contributions.

I plan to take what I learn through ACE and apply it immediately: speaking up in civic spaces and encouraging producers and advocates to work together to tell a fuller, more authentic story of Montana ag. The skills I gain won't just stay in my notebook -- they'll live in my conversations, my partnerships, and my leadership.

To me, leadership in agriculture isn't just for those who run a brand or manage acres -- it's for anyone willing to stand in the gap and use their voice. That's why I believe it's vital for farmers, ranchers, and rural advocates to keep growing their leadership and advocacy skills. The future of agriculture depends on more than hard work in the field -- it depends on who's willing to step forward and speak up.

Thanks for following along with my ACE journey. I'm grateful for the chance to grow, connect, and help keep rural Montana strong -- one conversation at a time!