We Need Farmers
- Grant Wiese
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
NW Call to Action
We Need Farmers
Encouraging The Next Generation BACK
Last week I read a Twitter post asking how farmers are going to survive in the current financial environment. We are in for a rough road as producers. While it was a great question and I was curious to see the responses, most were filled with doom and gloom.
That was disheartening for me because I am eternally bullish on agriculture. Yes, we are in a very tough environment and many operations are struggling financially. But I don’t want to dwell on that.
Instead, here’s a list of reasons to be optimistic about agriculture today — and why young producers should be excited to come back to the farm.
Opportunities are endless. Many farmers are retiring and will be willing to work with you as they transition out of the operation. Entire fleets of good, used equipment will hit the market, and large tracts of land will become available for rent from active farmers at reasonable rates.
Interest rates aren’t terrible. With CCC money and cheap input financing available, producers have options. Plus, there are low-interest government loans for grain bin projects and first-time land buyers. Even without those programs, 7.5% interest with rates trending down is manageable.
Technology reduces labor challenges. If you can’t get a retiring farmer to help, technology can fill the gap. Harvest crews can run with just two people and a grain bagger. Auto-steer and larger equipment keep the strain off operators and boost efficiency.
Be your own mechanic. Not everyone is naturally handy, but if you are, it pays. Building your own planter on a toolbar, doing your own repairs, or taking on extra winter jobs can save thousands and earn you serious extra income.
Start your own business. It’s never been easier to turn an idea into an additional revenue stream. Hop on ChatGPT and ask it for 50 farming-related side hustle ideas tailored to your expertise and location — you’ll be surprised at what you can create.
Farmers are smart and resourceful. Many know their numbers cold and seize once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, like renting 1,000 acres from a stable landlord on favorable terms. With effort, knowledge, and discipline, farming can be a path to building millions while being your own boss.
Farmland is an investment. While ROI may look modest at first, your “retirement account” is something you get to walk on and work every day. In many cases, farmland has increased tenfold in value during a farmer’s lifetime — making it one of the best long-term investments there is.
Work ethic. Lazy farmers are rare. Hard-working farmers build a life they’re proud of and can pass on to the next generation — not just the assets, but the values and work ethic that create strong, capable children.
Financial rewards. Yes, this is a challenging stretch. Many operations are illiquid and net worth growth is slow. But historically, it’s not uncommon for good years to grow net worth by six figures. Most W-2 wage earners never reach a net worth of six figures even with retirement accounts. Farming, done right, can offer stability and earning power that rival nearly any profession.
You’re in control. Good decisions or bad — they’re yours. Farming rewards those who learn, adapt, and make smart moves. It’s not easy, and it’s not for everyone, but I believe in the family farm.
We need the family farm. We need people to return, take the reins, and run them well. I built this website to help family farmers master their finances and grow in a healthy, sustainable way. Let’s encourage and support the next generation of family farmers.
Need help with your operation's financials?
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Have a great week!
Grant
