Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers Article

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Article: Ten ways to support the next generation of farmers

A new wave of food pioneers, mostly from non-farming backgrounds, is turning to careers in agriculture. But farming is a career path filled with obstacles, and today’s young farmers need our support.

By Maryann Conigliaro, The Christian Science Monitor

“Over the last 30 years, the average age of farmers has steadily increased, according to the U.S. Census Bureau . The U.S. Department of Agriculture  (USDA) reports that half of all current farmers are likely to retire in the next decade, leaving a large gap for the next generation to fill. Fortunately, a new wave of food pioneers, mostly from non-farming backgrounds, is turning to careers in agriculture. This career path comes with its fair share of hurdles. According to Lindsay Lusher Shute , executive director and co-founder of the National Young Farmers Coalition  (NYFC), “Capital and land top most young farmers’ lists” as their biggest challenges. Here are 10 ways to help the next generation of farmers nourish future consumers:”

Learn about 10 ways to support the next generation of farmers by reading the full article at: https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/The-Bite/2015/0126/Ten-ways-to-support-the-next-generation-of-farmers