Dec. 22: America’s Heartland stands center-stage in telling the story of American agriculture. As the only nationally broadcast program of its kind, America’s Heartland connects consumers to America’s agricultural communities. This week, the program has reached an important milestone: broadcasting its 100th episode to audiences on public television and RFD-TV.

The National Corn Growers Association is a promotional partner and advisory board member for the show.

Now in its fifth successful season, America’s Heartland gives viewers up-close and personal insights into the lives of farm and ranch families providing food, feed, fuel and fiber to our nation and the world. All of these efforts help bridge the gap of understanding about agriculture’s importance. Produced by KVIE Television in Sacramento, the program’s 100th episode continues those efforts.

In its 100th episode, which airs starting Wednesday, America’s Heartland explores how animal welfare is a key element of a century-old Kansas ranching operation; what steps a Georgia farmer takes to ensure food safety issues on produce that goes from his farm to your supermarket; how a Michigan farming operation, run by women, educates city youngsters about agriculture; and how a California ranch has taken the lead in protecting America’s wild mustang population. In addition, two special educational segments look at the nutritional value of kiwis and how vinegar is created for customers who like different flavors on their salads.

In addition to its weekly broadcasts, the < a href="http://www.americasheartland.org/">America’s Heartland website provides videos, educational materials and links to consumers who want to know more about the program and about agriculture in America. KVIE Vice President of Content Creation Michael Sanford says, “Reaching consumers with positive stories about agriculture is a mission that we take seriously. We know these are stories and reports that impact all of us whether we live in the city or on the farm.”