Vilsack announces appointments to committee advising him on newer farmers

New appointees were made to a USDA farm advisory committee.
New appointees were made to a USDA farm advisory committee.
One of the goals of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is to ensure that newer producers have the resources they need as they venture into the business of using farm equipment.

Recently, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that 11 people from states across the country were appointed to the USDA's Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers, which will help advise him on matters involving newer producers.

"Beginning farmers are a key to 21st century agriculture and I look forward to working with this committee to help ensure that," Vilsack said.

Supporting newer farmers could help keep rural communities vital, which is one focus of the USDA. Past reports from the department have shown that these areas are seeing populations reduced as younger people leave to find better economic opportunities elsewhere.

The USDA also has a number of funding opportunities available that may help farmers and ranchers make sure that their operations can continue to be viable, including those that help deal with production losses tied to natural disasters.