Farmers ARE our heroes because they literally put bread-and-butter on the table, not only for us, but for the world. We must protect and uphold the small farmer because they are part of rural culture and identity, as well as rural economics.

 

Due to the average age of farmers, it is estimated that 70% of land will change hands by 2031. In the coming decade it is imperative that we support farmers, understanding both the personal and social implications at play for the future of farming and ranching.

 

Examples are: Overcoming the barriers that exist for family members to return to the family farm, whether that is addressing childcare issues, healthcare issues, or supporting diversification and entrepreneurship. We must also work toward overcoming the social and economic challenges for first-generation farmers.

Acknowledging that the soil itself IS an asset, we need to protect it from climate impact, support market opportunities for cover crops such as Kernza, and incentivize farmers to adopt soil health practices.

 

My graduate capstone project at The Humphrey was in agriculture and soil health practices. Essentially, we explored the barriers that exist between technical assistants and farmers for the adoption of soil health practices. My area of presentation was on trust and relationship and how those two factors influence behavioral change.