A recent survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City showed a moderate decline in cash rents and farmland values in the fourth quarter of 2016. On the surface that may be helpful for beginning farmers and ranchers who have had challenges accessing land. However, Center for Rural Affairs Policy Program Associate Anna Johnson says the economic concerns in farm country are lingering.

She says the Center for Rural Affairs is helping beginning producers get started. One of the ways is through the CRP TIP or Transition Incentives Program.

Johnson says her group is also looking for more help for beginning farmers in the next farm bill.

Johnson says for those interested in learning more about the CRP TIP program, they’re having a meeting in Brookings on February 23. For more information go to the Center for Rural Affairs website.