By Blake Jackson
Young farmers in Missouri, passionate about their agricultural pursuits, are facing a major obstacle: land access. Without farm ownership or generational knowledge, they struggle to enter industry and establish their businesses.
Payge Solidago, a National Young Farmers Coalition organizer, highlights the critical need for land access. Nearly 40% of young farmers lease land, lacking secure ownership. Moreover, 80% believe their regenerative farming practices improve the land's health.
"This isn't just about a livelihood," Solidago emphasizes. "It's about food security, land sustainability, climate change, and environmental protection. Young farmers, especially, are committed to these issues."
Solidago urges the inclusion of the Land Access and Opportunities Act in the new Farm Bill. This legislation would address the land access crisis confronting young farmers.
Missouri's limited land-reparation projects offer insufficient support to Black and indigenous farmers and other minority groups. The Henry Kirklin Black Scholarship Fund is one example, but its reach remains limited.
Land access remains the top challenge for 60% of young farmers. Solidago further explains, "BIPOC farmers face these challenges at a higher rate than white farmers, creating barriers to entering the field."
Young farmers are at the forefront of climate change solutions, actively implementing sustainable practices on their farms. However, they face obstacles to accessing federal conservation programs.
"These programs often cater to large farms," Solidago explains. "Applying as a small, young farmer is often not worth the effort, leaving them without vital support."
To ensure the future of sustainable agriculture and empower young farmers, Solidago urges legislators to pass the Small Farms Conservation Act and the Land and Opportunities Act in the new Farm Bill. These vital pieces of legislation would provide much-needed support to young farmers and address the land access crisis.
Photo Credit: gettyimage-jamesbrey
Categories: Missouri, Business, Education, General