02 August, 2012

Young farmers are being encouraged to unlock inspiration in the next generation of farmers by Farming Minister Jim Paice.

Paice is urging members of the National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (NFYFC) to 'kick-start the drive' to get more young people interested in the agriculture and farming sector, reports farmersguardian.com.

As a result, The Future of Farming Group will look at ways in which barriers to young people entering the industry can be 'broken' down, as figures show fewer people are choosing agriculture as a career choice.

Factors like lack of training, access to land and affordable loans are just a selection of the issues restricting young people from entering the sector.

Paice, speaking to nfyfc.org.uk, explained why getting young people into agriculture and farming is so important for the sector's future: "Our industry needs keen, clever and enthusiastic young people to feed us in the future. Young Farmers' Clubs have many such members and I am very anxious that they are represented in this project."

Furthermore Diane Calvert, Chief Executive of NFYFC, expressed her delight at breaking down barriers with the Future of Farming Group: "We are very excited at the prospect of being involved with the Future of Farming Group, we have many talented members who have plenty to say on the difficulties of making farming and agriculture a realistic career option."

Source: Vertical Leap