Could Farm Bill Be Designed to Encourage New Farmers and Ranchers

As the ins and outs of the next Farm Bill are discussed, determining what’s most important, one issue getting a lot of attention is recruiting new and beginning farmers and ranchers.

Ryan Quarles with Kentucky State Agricultural Commission said one of the most important aspects is access to capital.

“It doesn’t need to discriminate against small and beginning farmers. There needs to be opportunity and access in the new financial instruments that are available through the FSA.”

Quarles also noted that FSA can take a greater role in succession planning for current farmers and ranchers.