Earlier this week, Farm Aid announced that its 2011 location will be Kansas City, Kansas, marking the first time the organization has held its benefit concert in Kansas. Willie Nelson, President of Farm Aid and a member of its Board of Directors, reiterated the importance of farming to the American economy and the necessity of helping struggling farmers.

Started in 1985, Farm Aid is a benefit concert designed to raise money for struggling family farms and farmers. The benefit was begun by Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Neil Young, all currently sitting on the Board of Directors, and has been responsible not only for raising money for farmers, but also for lobbying Congress. Nelson and Mellencamp both testified before Congress during the debates over the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987.

The timing and location of Farm Aid 2011 is important for Kansas, which is currently suffering from severe droughts which have devastated the state’s agricultural sector. Kansas Governor Sam Brownback welcomed Farm Aid, stating that Kansas has a long tradition of farming. Many Kansans hope that Farm Aid will help Kansas farmers.

Nelson, Mellencamp, Young, and Dave Matthews have already committed to perform, with other artists to be announced later. Farm Aid tickets will be available on May 20.

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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer