American Farmland Trust announced the disbursement of over $700,000 to 139 farmers across the United States through this year’s Brighter Future Fund.  Over 50% of those awarded identified as beginning farmers, with 30% being under 34 years of age. And over 60% of those awarded identified as women.  Grants were awarded to help these farmers invest in professional services, vital equipment and infrastructure with a special emphasis on improving farm viability, accessing farmland, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices.

 

Over half of those awarded have projects focused on projects focused on improving the overall viability of their farms. Additional grants were made available this year to farmers and ranchers affected by the historic Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas Panhandle. The funds will allow farmers to rebuild and replace infrastructure, equipment, cattle, and more that were destroyed in the early 2024 wildfires.

 

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com 

More From PNW Ag Network