(NAFB.com) – The National Wheat Foundation hosted a wheat farm tour this week for congressional staff and USDA employees. Wheat grower Eric Spates of Maryland gave visitors the chance to explore the farm, witness the wheat harvesting process, and listen to speakers who specialize in the ag industry. The discussion centered around crucial topics like risk management, conservation, pesticide programs, environmental issues, and what happens to wheat when it leaves the farm. “One of the Foundation’s main goals is educating people about wheat and farming,” says Bernard Peterson, Chairman of the National Wheat Foundation and a Kentucky farmer. “Wheat accounts for 20 percent of the calories consumed worldwide, so it’s a vital food crop and essential that everyone understands the complex issues that farmers face every day.” The objectives of the tour focused on strengthening participants’ appreciation for the intricacies of farming. Eric Spates is a dedicated board member of various farm organizations.