The Dr. Hyman Show

How To Support The Next Generation Of Farmers

Aug 21, 2020
The podcast dives into the aging landscape of American farming, revealing that the average farmer is 58 years old. It discusses the emotional ties older farmers have to their land and the urgent need for family succession. Young aspiring farmers face daunting challenges like high land costs and limited resources. The conversation emphasizes innovative policies to empower this next generation, including potential initiatives like a federal farmer corps. Insights from guests reveal the importance of nurturing new talent for a sustainable food future.
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INSIGHT

Aging Farmer Population

  • The average age of a U.S. farmer is 58, and 40% of farmland will change hands by 2035.
  • This raises concerns about the future of farming and the need for new farmers.
ANECDOTE

Difficulty Acquiring Farmland

  • Kimball Musk attempted to buy farmland in Iowa but found most owners were octogenarians.
  • They were emotionally attached to their land and wanted their children or grandchildren to inherit, despite the poor farming economics.
INSIGHT

Barriers to Entry for Young Farmers

  • Young people interested in farming face barriers such as high land costs and lack of support.
  • Square Roots' Next Gen Farmer Training Program aims to address this by empowering future food entrepreneurs.
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