USDA invests $24 million across 45 organizations and institutions

The United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C., is investing $24 million across 45 organizations and institutions that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers.

The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s [NIFA] Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program.

“Investing in the professional development of our nation’s newest farmers and ranchers will help our food and agriculture sectors to flourish from the ground up,” says Chavonda Jacobs-Young.

Jacobs-Young is the USDA’s under secretary for research, education and economics and chief scientist.

“Strengthening and growing our next generation pipeline is vital to the continued success of American agriculture and prosperity of rural communities.”

NIFA’s acting director Dr. Dionne Toombs says the investment is a wise investment in the next generation of farmers.

“We recognize that beginning farmers and ranchers have unique needs for education, training and technical assistance. Their success, especially in the first 10 years, often hinges on access to reliable, science-based information and the latest educational resources so they can improve their operations’ profitability and sustainability long-term,” says Toombs. “This investment will benefit a rising generation of beginning farmers and ranchers that truly reflect the tapestry of American agriculture and the many diverse communities we serve.”

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