The funding will help new producers enter the business as the average age of farmers increases.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced $46 million in grants this month for beginning farmers and ranchers, offering ways to offset the upfront costs needed to enter the industry.
“Starting or taking over a farm takes courage, and USDA wants to make sure our next generation of farmers have the resources and support they deserve to take that leap,” said Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small. “The Biden-Harris Administration is announcing investments to support beginning, underserved, and veteran farmers with technical assistance and mentoring to build successful operations. These partnerships with local experts help ensure all farmers and ranchers have fair access to USDA’s programs and market opportunities.”
The average age for U.S. farmers and ranchers is 58, with more than one-third being 65 and older. This trend is continuing to creep upward, leading the USDA to provide more incentives to reverse its trajectory.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Deputy Secretary Torres Small as she facilitates the grant program to help launch new farms.
- For USDA officials to be discerning in their actions to increase farming and ranching in the U.S.
Sources: Department of Agriculture
