Millennial farmers: the future of agriculture

America’s farmers are getting older. U.S. Census data shows that over the last 30 years, the average age of the American farmer went from 50.5 years to 58.3 years. Nevertheless, many young people in America are choosing to go into farming. In fact, millennials (people roughly 34 and under) account for about 250,000 farmers — or around eight percent of all agricultural producers — across the U.S.

Some millennials become farmers because it’s the family business. In fact, most American farms are owned by families — either individual families or family corporations. When older relatives age, the younger generation takes over the farm.

Other young people are inspired to go into agriculture out of an interest in organic farming, sustainable farming and the local food movement. According to a survey conducted by the National Young Farmers Coalition, millennial farmers are much more likely than the general farming population to grow organically, limit pesticide and fertilizer use, and diversify their crops or animals. They’re also more likely to be closely involved in their local food systems through farmers’ markets and community supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

Given the essential role that American agriculture serves in feeding the world and strengthening our economy, it’s important that the industry continues to attract young people to its related professions. And with all the technological innovations, business ventures and advances in sustainable agricultural practices, the farming sector has lots to offer people with all kinds of interests and backgrounds. To learn more about opportunities in agriculture, visit the National Ag Day website at agday.org.