Farm officials in Louisville, Kentucky are working to increase the number of young farmers in the industry, hopefully countering the overall graying of the farm industry and the looming demographic crisis that could endanger production.
For the past several decades, the overall number of American farmers has been on the decline. While agricultural production is increasing thanks to technological breakthroughs, the rural population is gradually shrinking, with more and more production concentrated in fewer and fewer hands.
Along with these changes, the profession is gradually aging. With fewer and fewer young people staying in rural communities or entering the farm profession, the average age of the farm community is also increasing. In some states, the average has increased to nearly 60-years-old.
In Louisville, Kentucky, farm officials are hoping to reverse these trends and encourage more young people to take agricultural jobs. A number of non-profit agencies are hoping to reconnect young people with the land and encourage them to think about what it takes to feed their community.
According to one sixteen-year-old participant, “I’ve gained an understanding of farming, and what it takes to farm, and where our food comes from. And having an understanding of that is just the best thing. It’s the best thing.”
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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