Aging on the farm, rural stress and mental health, growing the agricultural workforce, and on-farm research will take center stage at the NDSU Extension exhibit at the upcoming Big Iron Farm and Construction Show in West Fargo on Sept. 10-12. This event will provide valuable insights and resources for farmers and agricultural professionals looking to address key challenges in the industry.
One of the pressing issues facing farmers across the Upper Midwest is the aging demographic of farm producers. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, the average age of U.S. farm producers was 58.1 years, with a significant portion over the age of 65. The desire to age in place on the farm is strong among farmers, but they require support and resources to make this a reality. NDSU Extension, in collaboration with the University of Minnesota Extension, has developed a project to address the specific needs of aging farmers. This initiative aims to educate farm families and agricultural professionals about aging on the farm and provide guidance on how to support individuals who wish to age in place. Visitors to the exhibit can meet with NDSU and UMN Extension specialists, learn more about the program, and share their experiences and challenges with the team.
In addition to addressing the aging population of farmers, the exhibit will also focus on resources to help farmers and ranchers cope with occupational stresses and challenges. A dedicated team will be available to discuss these resources and provide guidance on managing stress effectively. Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and it is essential for farmers to have access to the necessary support and tools to navigate the pressures of their profession.
Another key highlight of the exhibit will be a booth dedicated to growing the agricultural workforce. This section will showcase 4-H resources and programs designed to ignite and nurture interest in agriculture among today’s youth. Youth education experts will gather feedback from booth visitors to identify the needs and gaps in preparing the next generation of the agricultural workforce. Encouraging young people to pursue careers in agriculture is crucial for the sustainability and growth of the industry.
Furthermore, specialists in soils and agriculture technology will be present to discuss an emerging effort to establish an on-farm research network in North Dakota. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of on-farm research and sign up to participate in future research efforts. By engaging in on-farm research, farmers can contribute to valuable data collection and innovation within the agricultural sector.
In addition to these informative exhibits, NDSU students representing the Bison Pullers and the Bison Antique Tractor Club will showcase their projects at the showgrounds. The Bison Pullers will display their one-fourth-scale tractor, which they design and build annually for an international collegiate competition. The Bison Antique Tractor Club will also have antique tractors on display, showcasing their dedication to preserving agricultural history through restoration projects.
Overall, the NDSU Extension exhibit at the Big Iron Farm and Construction Show promises to be a valuable resource for farmers, agricultural professionals, and enthusiasts alike. With a focus on addressing key challenges in the industry, promoting mental health and well-being, nurturing the next generation of agricultural workforce, and fostering on-farm research, this event is sure to provide valuable insights and opportunities for all attendees. Be sure to stop by the exhibit at the Hartl Ag Building to learn more and engage with experts in the field.
