Rural America makes up 90 percent of the country but holds less than 20 percent of the population, and those numbers continue to decline. Yesterday we looked at a book putting forth the argument that cities make us better, happier and healthier. But what about the argument for living in the country?
Maria Kefalas is professor of sociology at St. Joseph’s University and author of “Hollowing Out the Middle: The Rural Brain Drain and What it Means for America.” Kefalas says that because rural America is experiencing the largest increase in immigrant populations and is on the forefront in green technology and food development, we should be investing in its revitalization.
She is joined by Chuck Suchy, a folk singer/songwriter from North Dakota, who is transitioning from traditional cattle farming to producing grass-fed beef for a niche market.