How can people involved in agriculture handle those challenges?
In this region, successful farmers have been on the cutting edge of finding solutions to the problems of farming in a densely populated area. They have been proactive in addressing environmental issues and building relationships with neighbors, primarily through keeping them informed about modern agricultural practices. Some have used community dialogues and created business opportunities through agritourism to get their neighbors better connected to agriculture and more understanding about how food is produced.
Despite these issues, there is great interest in food and farming. Parents want their children to have the experience of harvesting pumpkins at Halloween or cutting a Christmas tree. Many farmers have capitalized on that interest by opening their farms to the public and directly marketing products to consumers.
How can agricultural entrepreneurs turn these challenges into opportunities?
There is a large segment of the population interested in purchasing the freshest, most wholesome food products. Local farmers can capture that market if they are willing to work directly with consumers or via wholesale outlets that capitalize on this trend. The market appears to be willing to support local farmers and to pay for a premium product.
How can someone involved with agriculture take advantage of the current economy?
Outstanding business and marketing skills are critical. Being successful in an agricultural enterprise is no different than any other business. There is great diversity among farmers, their skills and the opportunities they may find in the market. Unfortunately farmers don’t have a great deal of flexibility on commodity pricing but they are persevering and when possible taking advantage of the opportunities that lie before them. Agriculture is a 24/7 profession and it’s a labor of love for many. The most successful farmers have a knack for finding that unique market or opportunity in which they can best use their skills and the products they produce or grow.
How can education help them take advantage of these opportunities?
Students will find a wide range of majors in agriculture, including areas of study such as turf grass management, dairy science, equine science and studies, ornamental horticulture and food science. Also, an important factor in a quality education in agriculture is hands-on, experiential learning. Students in agricultural majors need practical skills as well as classroom and laboratory experience. Interdisciplinary study is important for students who may not want to farm but want to be engaged in the business side of agriculture such as marketing or communications related to agriculture or agribusiness.
Judith Schwank is the Dean of Agriculture and Environmental Studies at Delaware Valley College. Reach her at (215) 489-4190 or [email protected].