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Military veterans have what agriculture needs. Discipline.
Problem-solving skills. Teamwork and leadership experi-
ence. Service and drive. We've been honored to help many
veterans return to the farm or start agricultural careers as
they transition back to civilian life.
Last summer, Farm Credit invited young veterans from
across the U.S. to Washington, D.C., to tell Congress about
their transitions from military service to careers in agricul-
ture. Senators and representatives listened as they related
their successes and challenges. Three of these veterans
are from the Northwest and we're proud to support them
with financing through AgVision, our young and beginning
producer program.
An influx of military veterans into agriculture can't come
too soon. The current farmer population is growing older –
the average age is over 58 years – and finding a successor
is difficult for many. Where family members elect to opt out,
military veterans are often waiting for the opportunity to opt in.
Supporting Farmer Veterans
Phil DiPofi – President and CEO
Fortunately, military veterans moving into ag have a number
of organizations to turn to for help. There's our AgVision
program that provides preferred interest rates, reduced or
waived fees, and educational vouchers and resources to help
them learn more about managing a farm. The USDA and land
grant universities offer resources tailored to veterans. And
the Farmer Veteran Coalition (farmervetco.org) is helping
vets with information about financing, farming, business and
education resources, small grants and the Homegrown By
Heroes label program.
We are honored to count many military veterans among our
customer-members and our workforce, and look forward to
increasing these numbers. I know I speak for all of us when
I say, "Thank you for your service." We are inspired and
grateful indeed.
I'm excited for the future of agriculture. I'm optimistic about new technology to help lessen
labor challenges and improve the yields of Northwest crops and livestock. And, I'm especially
encouraged to see a new generation of producers forging a unique path to become farmers and
ranchers – these are military veterans, finding rewarding, lifelong careers in agriculture.
