The Plantbased Business Hour What Is the State of the American Farmer? Deputy Under Secretary, USDA, Sanah Baig
Sep 19, 2024
Sanah Baig, Deputy Under Secretary of the USDA, sheds light on the current state of American farmers and the escalating issue of food insecurity, which now affects over 12 million people. She discusses USDA initiatives like the Sun Bucks program aimed at enhancing food production in a sustainable manner. The conversation dives into the need for collaboration between sectors to tackle climate change and transform food systems. With the Farm Bill on the horizon, Baig highlights critical changes necessary for a resilient and equitable agricultural future.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
USDA's Broad Mission
- USDA is a comprehensive federal agency focusing on rural prosperity, food safety, nutrition, and agricultural research.
- It supports various mission areas including rural development, forest services, education, economics, and science policy.
Changing Farmer Demographics
- Women make up about 36% of U.S. producers, influencing a majority of farm decisions.
- The average farmer's age is rising but efforts to support younger producers are slowing this trend.
Farmland Loss Impact
- The U.S. lost 20 million acres of farmland in five years, mostly to commercial real estate.
- Loss of agricultural land limits carbon sequestration potential essential for climate mitigation.