Farmers and ranchers across the U.S. are seeing their business thrive, as record harvests and profits have let them invest in new and used farm equipment, helping to bolster their ability to continue this upward momentum in the coming year.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke to the success of the agricultural industry in an article for The Hill, as he noted that the sector is continuing to benefit from the emergence of local and regional food systems.
Vilsack noted that many young farmers started out in these local markets, and regardless of where they go from that point, they benefited from the education and experience they received there.
"Local and regional food systems are about opportunity - the opportunity for our country’s farmers, ranchers and growers to meet growing customer demand, the opportunity for entrepreneurs to create jobs at small businesses such as local food processors, distributors, food hubs and markets," Vilsack noted about the necessity of these markets.
According to the Downriver News-Herald, the local food movement has gained momentum across the country, especially in Michigan.
The growth of markets in this state have pushed it to the state that holds the third highest amount of these stores, behind New York and California.
Celebrating the diversity of the agricultural industry
Vilsack noted that many young farmers started out in these local markets, and regardless of where they go from that point, they benefited from the education and experience they received there.