The Return of Young Farmers

For years now young people have left the family farm for college never to return to the family business of farming. This pattern has created a situation where the majority of our nation's farmers are over the age of fifty; an age that while not old, is definitely on the other side of prime for any career. Interestingly, with the downswing in the economy came a dire reality that found most graduates fresh from college unable to find employment; a situation that has prompted many to return to the family farming business. The face of agriculture has changed considerably over the last several years; a family farm that once would have supported several generations, now can have trouble supporting one, so for this to be successful, especially in these difficult times, the returning son or daughter needs to be prepared to work hard, twice as hard as they would for any other job. Contrary to popular opinion, the family farm isn't disappearing; it has just had to adjust to difficult times. Difficult though is not synonymous with impossible. Young people returning to the family farm are finding ways to earn a living and still enjoy the lifestyle. It's a challenge, but one they can rise to.