Close your eyes and think of a farmer. Odds are you’ve pictured an aging man with gray hair and leathery skin; he’s old. Why is that our perception of farmers? Because most farmers are “old.” According to the USDA, the average age of farmers in 2012 was 58.3 years old. That’s the AVERAGE. This is not a local or national concern; it is a global crisis. Rapid population growth rates around the world and the very realistic threat of a food supply shortage should have us all concerned.

Thankfully, there seems to be a solution of the rise. Young men and women across the country are looking at agriculture as not only a viable but a lucrative career option. The good news is they have help.  There are organizations and programs available to help these “agripreneurs” get started, educated, and financed. Groups like the Young Farmers Coalition (with 25 chapters across the U.S) are helping these young farmers get started. Extension agencies (like Clemson Extension) are currently offering a program to help educate new and beginning farmers. Banks and lenders are providing all types of aid and incentives for these farmers.

The bad news is they’re not getting ALL of the help they need. Ironically, the biggest hurdle facing these young farmers is access to land. Educational and financial institutions are providing assistance, but these farmers still need land to farm. It’s up to the brokers and agents to recognize this opportunity, understand the obstacles, and provide solutions. How do we do that? By educating ourselves on the programs and incentives available, by being aware of the agricultural climate in our areas, and by getting out there and finding the land!