Iowa’s youth continue to have a strong interest in livestock farming. That’s according to a recent survey of Iowa FFA members by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers. Of the students who reported a desire to farm, 89% indicated they intend to raise livestock.

The 2017 results also reveal that 54% of students who do not have a desire to farm would be most likely to work in an ag-business related field. This was the 12th year CSIF has conducted the survey at the Iowa FFA State Leadership Conference. Responses were collected from 395 FFA members.

“I grew up around livestock and want to continue to be a part of a great industry that has taught me so many important life skills,” says Ashley Kahler, a sophomore at Ballard High School and a member of the school’s FFA chapter. After attending a four-year college, Kahler hopes to pursue her passion for raising hogs and says she would enjoy caring for a small cattle herd as well. “I consider myself lucky to have been involved in raising livestock on my family’s farm, and I hope to share those same experiences and values with my own children someday.”

Many opportunities in livestock agriculture
Students like Kahler have the opportunity to pursue on-farm careers, thanks to the 122,764 jobs livestock farming is responsible for in Iowa.

“The future of Iowa is still on livestock farms,” says Brian Waddingham, CSIF executive director. “Despite the current downturn in the farm economy, there are many opportunities in livestock agriculture for the next generation. Those opportunities include traditional species such as hogs, cattle, dairy, poultry and turkey farms, as well as emerging enterprises such as fish and shrimp.”

Other findings from the 2017 survey include:

• 97% have positive outlook on the future of Iowa agriculture

• 75% intend to live and work in Iowa, a 6% increase from the 2016 results

• 44% believe steep startup costs are the primary obstacle for young people pursuing a career in farming, a 4% decrease from 2015 and 2016

Helping farmers interpret rules
“CSIF is here to help beginning farmers navigate the challenges of raising livestock, including interpreting rules and regulations, providing siting assistance, and enhancing neighbor relations,” says Waddingham. “In providing these services, we aim to alleviate some of the risks young families who aspire to make a living through livestock encounter.”

CSIF is a nonprofit organization assisting livestock farmers who want help interpreting rules and regulations, guidance on good site locations for barns, counsel on enhancing neighbor relations, and tips on how to protect the environment. There is no cost to the farmer for CSIF services. For more information, call 800-932-2436 or visit supportfarmers.com.

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers to help farmers raise livestock responsibly and successfully. It’s a joint partnership involving the Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Poultry Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy Association.

Source: Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers