Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced on Aug. 6 that 33 grant awards will be given to young farmers and ranchers who are a part of the department’s Young Farmer Grant Program. This comes as a part of the state’s efforts to support young agricultural producers.
The grants total $306,440, and the Young Farmer Grant Program is funded by agricultural vehicle registration fees paid by farmers. The Texas Department of Agriculture is working to maintain a vital agricultural industry for years to come.
“With only six percent of our farmers and ranchers under the age of 35, now more than ever, it is imperative that we support this critical segment of our industry,” said Commissioner Miller. “The future of Texas agriculture lies partly in the hands of our next generation who are today’s young farmers.”
The deadline for the next round of Young Farmer Grants is Fall 2015, and an exact date will be set in the near future. The grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, and they are offered twice per year. Individuals who are at least 18 years of age can apply, but may not exceed 46 years of age at the time of receiving the award.
In February 2014, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack exhibited his confidence in young producers while analyzing the 2012 Census of Agriculture.
“While the aging nature of the farming population is a concern, we are hopeful that as we attract and retain the next generation of talent into rural America, this trend can also be reversed,” said Vilsack.