While many farm officials and farm advocacy organizations are concerned about an impending demographic crisis, one that could cripple US agricultural production and shrink the overall farm economy, many of the challenges facing the farm sector, ranging from invasive pest species to new economic demands, may create new opportunities and may lead to a boom in farm sector employment.
For the past several generations, farmers and ranchers have been concerned with looming demographic changes. While the US workforce as a whole has been aging, farm sector jobs (which have always skewed older) are reaching frightening averages. Nationwide, the average age of the American farmer is reaching 60, with many communities already reporting average ages at or over 60.
While many commentators have speculated that these demographic changes may lead to a decline in the farm sector, some of the challenges currently facing the farm sector may help offset those losses.
For example, while farmers across the US are reporting critical labor shortages, recent efforts by the US Department of Agriculture to offer young farmers loans and grants, as well as a resurgence of agricultural education programs across the nation, may help lure more and more young people into the profession.
While invasive pest species and crop diseases may force many farmers to abandon traditional cash crops (many Florida citrus farmers, for example, are swapping blighted orange groves for olive trees) and may pose a threat to production, farmers willing to embrace new production methods and diversify crops may generate new jobs. In addition, flexible farming methods, particularly those requiring new technological innovations, will help create a booming agricultural tech sector.
While it may not be possible to predict the future of American farming, the innovation and resilience of US farmers should help them adapt to any situation as it arises.
To learn more about agricultural financing opportunities contact a Farm Plus Financial representative by calling 866-929-5585 or by visiting www.farmloans.com.
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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer