Novice Farmers Face Challenges Amid Rising Costs and Land Access Issues
Novice farmers in the U.S. are encountering significant challenges as they attempt to establish themselves in the agricultural industry. Rising costs, difficulty accessing land, and inflation are major hurdles. For example, Ben De Boef, a young farmer in Iowa, struggles to expand his operation due to skepticism from landlords and high land prices. The average cost of farmland in Iowa has increased significantly, making it difficult for new farmers to purchase land. Additionally, inflation has driven up the cost of farming supplies, further straining budgets. Despite these challenges, some states are proposing legislation to support beginner farmers, such as prioritizing them in agricultural programs and easing succession planning. 
