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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced a $46 million investment in projects supporting America’s veteran, underserved, and beginning farmers and ranchers. The aim is to help aspiring producers enter the business and enhance their skills to sustain their operations. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to providing resources and support to the next generation of farmers. Investments will support beginning, underserved, and veteran farmers with technical assistance, mentoring, and fair access to USDA programs and market opportunities.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture report revealed that the average age of U.S. farm producers is 58.1, with more than one-third being 65 or older. To address this aging population trend, USDA’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) and 2501 Program offer education, mentoring, and technical assistance to help underserved, veteran, and beginning farmers succeed in the industry.
Under the BFRDP, projects include Washington Farmland Trust providing personalized technical assistance to beginning producers, Nirvana Tea, Inc. offering education and mentoring to underserved farmers, and Augusta Locally Grown, Inc. providing training and support to beginning farmers in Georgia.
The 2501 Program grants include initiatives like Tanka Fund helping Native American buffalo producers with marketing and product development, Florida International University educating veterans and youth on sustainable farming, and Wakulima USA supporting immigrant and refugee farmers in Washington State.
For more information on the funded projects, visit the USDA 2501 Program website. The Biden-Harris Administration is focused on transforming America’s food system by promoting local and regional food production, fair markets, access to nutritious food, climate-smart practices, infrastructure investments, and equity across the Department.
USDA remains committed to promoting equal opportunities for all Americans. Visit www.usda.gov for more information.
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Sophie Müller completed her studies at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, earning a degree in Environmental Sciences with a concentration in agroecology. Her research explored the interactions between crops and their environment, particularly in relation to organic farming systems. Sophie is now a research scientist, focusing on agroecological practices that promote biodiversity and reduce environmental impact in agriculture.
