A growing number of Texas camps are focusing on teaching children about farm life and agricultural production, a recent study by the American Camp Association suggests.

Across the country, farmers and agricultural producers are facing a tough future. While the agricultural industry is currently enjoying a major economic boom, its long-term survival may be in doubt because of increasingly problematic demographic shifts. Over the past twenty years, the average age of the American farmer has increased by 18 percent, to a high of 56.

This graying of the industry is hitting Texas particularly hard. In addition to the overall demographic trends, many younger farmers are still struggling with the effects of last year’s devastating drought. With younger farmers forced out of business, the average age of Texas farmers is rapidly increasing, leading some agricultural officials to worry about the future of the state’s farm economy.

One way to combat these changes is to introduce children to farm work and agricultural life. Over the past five years, 86 percent of Texas summer camps have added gardening and agricultural activities, with 12 percent adding ranching activities.

These farms, Texas officials hope, will serve two functions. One the one hand, introducing children to the food they eat will encourage better nutrition. In addition, the program will make children more familiar with agricultural production, potentially leading some to consider it as a profession when they get older.

To learn more about agricultural financing opportunities contact a Farm Plus Financial representative by calling 866-929-5585 or by visiting www.farmloans.com.

Follow us on: Twitter

Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer