Farming continues to be an integral part of Iowa’s economy. But that may change depending on the desires of the next generation.

According to the 2012 USDA Agriculture Census, the average farmer in the state of Iowa is 57, a number that has increased almost five years since 1997. According to that same survey, Iowa saw the biggest drop in farmers of ages 35-54.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Farm Management Specialist Shane Ellis is hopeful that trend will change. “I think that there is a younger generation that wants to come back, wants to get started and make things happen. We have a lot of programs working with beginning farmers trying to help get them a leg up and get them started.” Ellis suggests current farmers set up partnerships with interested heirs of the farm, rather than waiting until retirement to make a full transfer.

For more information on farm management services and programs, contact Ellis at shanee@iastate.edu.