USDA is providing $ 18 million to help educate and develop the next generation of farmers. The funding is through the 2014 farm bill under the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development program and is administered by USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture. Center for Rural Affairs Senior Associate for Ag and Conservation Policy Traci Bruckner says this is the program they helped launch and is a great starting point for those just getting into the business.
Bruckner says it’s difficult for young people to get started farming and ranching and this program helps them identify what they need to do and learn to achieve that goal.
Bruckner says the new crop of growers and ranchers come from all different kinds of backgrounds
Bruckner says those wanting more information about the program can contact them at the Center for Rural Affairs.