By Scout Nelson
Minnesota U.S. Senators have announced $750,000 in federal funding to support a new program designed to improve access to farmland in the Midwest. The funding will expand the Upper Midwest Farmland Access Hub Navigator Program, a project run by Renewing the Countryside, which assists beginning farmers in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa in finding and securing farmland.
The executive director of Renewing the Countryside expressed excitement about the grant, emphasizing the importance of the Farmland Access Hub's work during a time when farmland prices are high, and many acres are changing hands as older farmers retire.
The program, now in its seventh year, pairs land-seeking farmers with experienced navigators who provide guidance, resources, and connections to farmland owners ready to transfer their land to new farmers.
One of the key reasons for the need to support new farmers is the aging farmer population. The average age of farmers in the U.S. is 58, and it is 57 in Minnesota, numbers that continue to rise each year. This poses a challenge for the future of agriculture in the country.
Federal officials highlighted the significance of investing in the next generation of farmers to ensure that agriculture production continues and remains a strong part of the national economy. They also emphasized the importance of agriculture to national security, food security, and the rural economy, noting that supporting the transition to the next generation of farmers is essential for maintaining a stable agricultural system.
With fewer farms in Minnesota compared to previous years, the $750,000 federal funding represents a step toward helping beginning farmers access the land they need to start and grow their businesses. This program supports the rural economy by ensuring the continued success of agriculture in the region for future generations.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-d-keine
Categories: Minnesota, General, Government & Policy