No single organization can prepare the next generation of agriculture on its own.
Across the industry, organizations have established meaningful programming that helps young and beginning producers find resources, build networks and develop key leadership and advocacy skills. While each program is unique, and reflective of the organization that created it, they all share a common purpose: ensuring the next generation of American agriculture is set up for success.
That shared purpose recently brought together a group of leaders for a half-day roundtable in Washington.
Farm Credit and the National Milk Producers Federation convened representatives from 15 national producer and agricultural organizations for a discussion focused on their respective young and beginning producer programs. The format encouraged collaboration — sharing what is working well, discussing common challenges, identifying gaps and exploring collaboration opportunities.
“The roundtable reinforced what participants knew going in — while organizations may approach the goal from different angles, they’re often addressing the same problems” said Anne Thompson, Vice President of Young, Beginning Farmer Programs and Industry Outreach at the Farm Credit Council.
Participants shared ideas on programming focal points, ranging from curriculum development to mentorship pairing to evaluation techniques to engagement strategies. They discussed how components of successful programs include hands-on experiences, one-on-one mentorships and networking opportunities, while key challenges include producers’ bandwidth and identifying next steps within the organization for program alumni.
Despite the variety of approaches taken, several common themes emerged across programs.
- Young and beginning producers are eager for meaningful connections with peer networks and mentors.
- They benefit most when programs provide in-person and provide practical experiences.
- Perhaps most importantly, no single program can meet every need throughout a young or beginning producer’s journey.
“This discussion underscored the importance of continued communication,” said Theresa Sweeney-Murphy, Senior Director of Communication and Outreach at the National Milk Producers Federation. “Our organizations may serve different commodities and constituencies but we are united by a common commitment to the future of American agriculture.”
Farm Credit and the National Milk Producers Federation are grateful to the organizations that engaged in this meaningful discussion and openly shared their thoughts and experiences. The roundtable served as a reminder of how much all agriculture groups can learn from one another.
As rural America continues to evolve, so too must the ways the agriculture industry supports those who are just getting started. By sharing knowledge, building partnerships and looking for opportunities to collaborate, these organizations are helping ensure the next generation of producers has the tools, resources and networks necessary to succeed.
