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Next Generation


The majority of today’s new organic farmers are more likely to hail from the ‘burbs or city than the farm. These new pioneers of the organic movement face an uphill battle as they respectfully challenge those who came before them to rethink the way they farm, while they want to learn from their elders, as well. Some young farmers are second-generation organic producers whose parents were the movement trailbreakers. These groups of newer and younger farmers have much in common. They see organic farming as an environmental and social mission, a way to reposition the farmer into a place of respect in society, and as a way to heal rural communities economically, physically and spiritually. This section features our next generation of farmers.

  • With a nod to Rodale's New Farm magazine, John Ikerd, deep thinker and professor emeritus in the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Missouri, explains what it really means to be a "new farmer" in today's uncertain times.
  • "The people who are farming are the root of everything in the entire world." A deep vision for agriculture guides this student in looking at her future in farming.
  • Innovative Michigan ag professor sows the seeds for a new generation of organic farmers while conducting season-extension research.
  • Producing real food and meeting customers who love farmers show her the future of agriculture.
  • Starting with a wheelbarrow, a fork and a pickup truck, they've become viable farmers - thanks to good food, hard work and customers who care.