Posted December 4, 2013
A resource guide developed by the American Farm Bureau Federation
(AFBF) and the Farmer Veteran Coalition Partnership (FVC) provides information
and assistance for military veterans seeking employment in agriculture,
according to a Drovers article available here.
Nearly four million veterans reside in rural America
and a “disproportionate share of men and women serving in the military were
raised in rural communities” according to USDA.
The organizations will work together to train beginning
farmers, make equipment available for veteran farmers, and help to find farm
ownership or employment opportunities for members of the military transitioning
into civilian life.
AFBF President Bob Stallman said, “Through this
partnership, I am optimistic returning veterans will learn how to continue
their service to our country by helping feed its citizens, nourish its land and
make its rural communities more viable through the many entrepreneurial
opportunities agriculture has to offer.”
“We’re working to cultivate a new generation of farmers
and food leaders, in addition to developing viable employment and meaningful
careers through the collaboration of the farming and military communities,”
said Michael O’Gorman, executive director of the FVC.
The guide is available here.
