A recent Ohio State University study shows the number of beginning farmers dropping 20 percent over a five year period. The research also shows the average age of farmers increasing. That concerns officials with the Center for Rural Affairs. Senior Policy Associate Traci Bruckner says its tied to increasing land values, which  have made it difficult for beginning farmers to get started.

She says there needs to be changes in federal policy to assist younger farmers trying to get into the business.

Bruckner says the current farm program payments hurt beginning farmers and give more help to larger producers.

Bruckner agrees with the Ohio State study which indicates more support and training is needed for beginning farmers as well as more assistance in helping them acquire access to farmland.