How to Support Up-and-Coming Agriculturists

With startup costs on the rise, a study conducted by the Coalition to Support lowa's Farmers provides insights on the obstacles facing tomorrow's farmers.

- By Abbey Tauchen

A study conducted by the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers (CSIF) during the 2024 Iowa FFA Leadership Conference revealed that 70% of participating FFA members would like to farm in the future. Nearly 48% of the study's participants indicated startup costs as the primary obstacle to new and beginning farmers, an 8% increase from the prior year.

“Costs are certainly a hurdle for new and beginning farmers, especially if you don't have family that are already established farmers,” said Brian Waddingham, the CSIF executive director.

The Big Picture

CSIF promotes the responsible growth of Iowa's livestock industry. Its team members have been working to bridge the gap between retiring farmers and young farmers by facilitating mutually beneficial arrangements such as leasing equipment and land.