Farmer Chris
Beyond the Fencerows: Chris Riley’s Commitment to Agricultural Advocacy
For Chris Riley, farming has always been more than a profession—it’s a passion rooted in stewardship, community, and the responsibility to feed families. Over the years, Chris has come to realize that some of the most important work he can do for his farm happens beyond the fencerows. While tending fields and crops remain at the heart of his operation, Chris has embraced an equally vital role: serving as an advocate for agriculture.
Opening the Farm Gate to the Community
One of Chris’s most meaningful avenues for advocacy has been welcoming families onto his farm. By inviting visitors to pick their own produce, walk the fields, and see firsthand how their food is grown, he has created a powerful bridge between farmers and consumers. These on-farm experiences turn curiosity into understanding—helping families appreciate the dedication, science, care, and hard work that go into raising safe, healthy food.
For Chris, these moments are more than educational. They are opportunities to build trust, answer questions openly, and showcase the values that guide his daily work. Each conversation and tour reinforces a simple truth: transparency strengthens the bond between farmers and the people they feed.
Investing in Professional Advocacy Training
Recognizing the growing importance of clear, credible communication in agriculture, Chris has sought out structured professional training to sharpen his advocacy skills. A cornerstone of this growth has been his participation in the Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program through the American Farm Bureau Federation.
PAL has provided extensive training in public speaking, media engagement, message development, and policy understanding. Through this program, Chris learned how to effectively share the story of modern agriculture with diverse audiences—from local community groups to national media platforms. The training also equipped him to confidently and professionally engage with lawmakers working on issues that directly impact farmers, rural communities, and food production.
A Stronger Voice for Agriculture
With these tools in hand, Chris has become a knowledgeable and trusted voice in agriculture. Whether speaking with reporters, guiding families through his fields, or meeting with legislators, he represents farming with clarity, honesty, and enthusiasm. His efforts help ensure that the perspectives and realities of farmers are included in conversations that shape agricultural policy and public perception.
Why Sharing Our Story Matters
Chris’s journey reflects a growing understanding across the agricultural community:
If farmers don’t speak up about how food is grown, others will speak for them.
Consumers today want to know where their food comes from and how it is raised. By sharing his practices openly showing the care behind every crop and explaining the decisions that help ensure safety and quality, Chris helps build consumer confidence. His advocacy reinforces what farmers know to be true: they are dedicated to raising safe, healthy products for families, including their own.
Leading by Example
Chris Riley’s commitment to advocacy beyond the fencerows serves as an inspiring example for farmers everywhere. His work demonstrates that raising food and raising awareness go hand-in-hand. By opening his farm, investing in education, and becoming a strong communicator, Chris helps strengthen trust in agriculture and ensures that the voices of farmers remain heard, respected, and understood.
Leadership Experience
Utah Sweet Cherry Marketing Board Member 2011-2015
Moutainland Apples Board of Directors 2011-Present
Utah State Horticulture Association Board Member: 2015-2023
Utah Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Achievement Award Winner: 2021
Utah State Horticulture Association President: 2022-2023
Utah Farm Bureau Agritourism Committee: 2022-2024
American Farm Bureau Issue Advisory Committee Member: 2023-Present
American Farm Bureau Partners in Advocacy Leadership: 2024-2026
Feel free to reach out for more info or any other inquiries about our farm or how we can collaborate to further agriculture's story. Contact rileyorchards@gmail.com