State Legislative Committee Looks to Help New and Young Farmers Succeed

State Legislative Committee Looks to Help New and Young Farmers Succeed

Maura Bennett
Maura Bennett
State Senator Kerry Donovan says Colorado Agriculture is in need of new blood because without it the state's cultural heritage and diverse economy is in danger.

The 5th District Democrat raises beef cattle near Vail and is spearheading a committee looking at ways to help young farmers and ranchers succeed.

"We're not going to maintain agriculture if the population continues to age and we don't get new people involved in it. As a new rancher myself I really struggled with knowing how to navigate the system. From grant processes to what's required in reporting, finding people who know what the home remedy treatments might be versus having access to large animal vets. So there's a lot of everyday challenges to being a young or beginning farmer that I've experienced first hand. When I was talking to others, there were similarities in our stories. I thought if our state really values agriculture as our future then it would be worth taking the time to study where the state can play a role in supporting those endeavors."

The committee on Young and Beginning Farmers will draft legislation to present to the 2018 session.

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