Farmers are now dealing with the impacts of the climate crisis on a daily basis. Experts predict weather events including droughts and flooding will only get worse. Young and beginning farmers, especially BIPOC farmers, are feeling those impacts the most. Are there opportunities to advance water and climate action and justice through the 2024 Farm Bill? We interview Abi Fain, Chief Legal and Policy Officer at the Intertribal Ag Council. And we’ll talk to young farmers building solutions to address water access and climate issues.
Dozens of Microenterprise Development Organizations from 28 states, including Nebraska s Center for Rural Affairs, have signed a letter urging Congress to support the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act. Kalee Olson, senior policy associate at the center, said the U.S. Department of Agriculture program has been included in the Farm Bill since 2008. .
About one-third of Missouri is considered rural, and people who live there often have health challenges. The latest research suggested overlooking rural areas has major consequences. A new report from the Missouri Rural Health Association outlined the need for continued investment in rural Missouri. .
Rural schools in Ohio are finding local solutions to ensure their students have the resources and skills they need to be successful. Grand Valley High School in Ashtabula County started a Community Learning Center to help support students. Teacher Jason McConnell, who is also the president of the Grand Valley Education Association, said the center has been a game changer in helping students meet basic needs - so they can focus on learning, and not feel embarrassed about needing help. .