Millennial Farmers - A New Generation of Agriculturalists

If someone is known for updating their status, sharing a post, or commenting on a photo -- it’s most likely a millennial. People 40 years old and younger grew up around technology and social media -- these things are second nature to them. Oftentimes, this group is referred to as the transparency generation -- open and willing to learn and share new things. 

Between 2015 - 2019, about 100 million acres of farmland were passed down to the generation of millennial farmers. Studies have shown that these farmers think outside of the box, and approach farming in a new way. Millennial farmers have taken their new way of thinking and applied it to the agricultural industry. There are 3 specific ways that this generation of farmers has changed the industry: 

Creating their own version of a farm 

Millennials are known for breaking barriers and pushing limits. Instead of settling for tradition, they are ready to make changes to increase efficiency and quality. They are able to appreciate and acknowledge the history of agriculture, while also looking into the future. Their flexibility helps them to create their own version of a farm -- whether that means growing row crops or a vegetable garden. 

Using technology to their advantage

Millennials have pushed to integrate technology into the agricultural industry. They are willing to try new technologies, which is less common with older generations of farmers. Millennial farmers have taken a special interest in precision ag tools, smartphones, and agricultural robots.  

Recognize consumer demand 

Millennial farmers understand that consumers want to know where their food comes from. Most millennial farmers try to educate consumers and improve agricultural literacy. They use social media to their advantage to create videos, blogs, and websites. Each of these platforms act as a source of education for consumers. There are various farmers that have even become “influencers” (social media famous)  -- The Millennial Farmer, New York Farm Girls, and the Grateful Farm Wife. Each of these young-generation farmers have used their platform to educate consumers. 

Each generation of agriculturalists are vital to our industry, and millennials are no different in that regard -- they just do things a little differently. How do you think millennial farmers have impacted agriculture? Let us know in the comments below!