Meet Joshua D. Allen: African Americans in Agriculture Spotlight Series

Here we are at week three! I caught up with Joshua D. Allen, a native of Louisiana, committed to planting seeds and blooming wherever he’s planted.

For the record, it’s your preference for being called “Josh,” so Josh, tell us what Agriculture means to you? How does it affect your everyday life?

Agriculture, in my opinion, is one of the most vital yet underrated professions today. Without the contributions of the hardworking men and women who devote their time and effort to producing many of the crops, livestock commodities, and textiles we value, society couldn't function. From our clothes and shoes to breathing fresh air, agriculture is an integral component of how our world operates. As a Soil Conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Services, a key aspect of my position is to develop networks with the rural community and aid in conserving natural resources. In addition, I partner with agricultural and environmental groups to provide landowners and producers with technical assistance by developing plans such as Nutrient Mgmt., Forest Mgmt., Integrated Pest Mgmt., and Irrigation Water Conservation plans to manage resource concerns and implement mitigation activities. Agriculture is the glue that holds society together, and I commend each and every person who commits to servicing the people across the world.

Give us a little bit of background. How did you get into agriculture? What was/is your agricultural inspiration or influence?

For three years, I worked closely with horticulturalists, as well as professors and extension staff, at Prairie View A&M University and the rural bounds of Houston, Texas. For the past several years, I’ve worked as a Soil Conservationist and Agricultural Engineer in Texas and Vermont with the United States Department of Agriculture (Natural Resource Conservation Service). I desire to elevate the field of agriculture to new heights by influencing agricultural advancement and sustainability. I am dedicated to my work; thus, continuing my educational pursuits to preserve food safety and encourage natural conservation is desired. My proficiencies, coupled with enthusiasm, determination, and desire, have forged a great partnership with the landowners and producers in my areas. Any help that I can provide to farmers is essential to increase the longevity and influence that agriculture provides.

What is your favorite part about what you do? 

My absolute favorite aspect of my position is working with the producers. It's something quite encouraging about visiting someone's property and allowing them the opportunity to break down the parameters of their operation. You can see the glow in their eyes and hear the passion carrying in their voices as they illustrate how they contribute to not only their communities but to the world. It brings me immense joy to accommodate wherever applicable. These tenacious individuals can continue to do what brings them so much fulfillment and granting people worldwide valued commodities that would be gravely inconvenient to live without.

What is it like being an African American in Agriculture in today’s society?

To understand what it's like being an African American in agriculture, you must first understand the history behind the men and women who paved the way for us. During slavery, black men and women were forced to tend fields on plantations for their white masters. These skills were passed down generationally to their offspring, hoping that they could own and manage their land without persecution and hostility one day. As time went on, African Americans were granted their freedom; however, prejudice's ever-present influence remained a hindrance in procuring land. I believe it is just, if not more, influential as African Americans to increase our presence in agriculture and use our inherent skills to own and operate land. Besides being an asset and growing prosperity, land can serve as a critical piece of generational wealth that each person can pass down to their children, preserving our history and maintaining our ever-growing mark as an undeniable and influential people.

Statistics show that African Americans in Agriculture has declined drastically over the years. What are some ways we can reverse this trend?

To reverse the declining trend in African Americans in agriculture, we must first market the realm of agriculture as more than just farming and ranching. There are endless opportunities available to youth and adults alike to encourage agricultural involvement. This includes but is not limited to agricultural economics, medicinal properties of crops, phycological influences, supply, demand, and judicial policies and lawmaking. It's further up to our leaders to use their platforms to educate the masses on what effect agriculture has on our world. If we can change the mind of one person, we can conclusively reach one hundred. That's how we grow and become better as we know better.

What words of encouragement or advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in Agriculture?

I would encourage anyone who is contemplating a career in agriculture to avoid being swayed by society's success view. Knowledge is the most significant wealth one can possess, and without it, we are all lost. Don't let someone ignorant of the contributions of agriculture depict your role. Innovators are not confined to a box, and once you can break that barrier, you'll be able to educate those who once tried to hinder your growth and help them advance.

Any additional words you’d like to share?

Each one, Teach one so that each one can reach one!

Joshua D. Allen
Soil Conservationist
Brattleboro, VT by way of Lake Charles, LA

Email: joshua.allen@usda.gov

Office: (802) 689-3022; Cell: (662) 321-9051