b'Inspiring the Next Generationof GrowersHow do we inspire the next generation tothe results take on the mammoth task of feeding thefor himself. world?Poulson In the UK, the average age of a farmer is 59 while insought out the the US, less than 7% of farmers are under the ageopportunity of 35. How can the farming industry attract moreto learn from young growers and more farmers of color? HowMcCains are todays careers as growers different from whatexperts. I previous generations experienced? was looking Growers of the future are farming sustainably to build on what Id picked Farming has changed dramatically since todaysup from my growers grandparents started their businesses.fathers years Agriculture is embracing science, with ag tech andof experience. buzz-worthy technological advances. I recognized where I fell short and wanted the Many young growers today are inspired toopportunity to gain knowledge from people with approach farming differently, making agricultureother areas of expertise. part of the solution to address climate change.Poulson found his business benefitted from Austin Poulson is a fifth-generation farmer and thepartnering with McCain. We had been supplying owner of Scott Poulson Farms in Idaho. Poulson haspotatoes to the fresh open market. Working with worked closely with McCain Foods to implementMcCain means sharing risk in making the transition regenerative agriculture practices on his farm andto regenerative practices. Now I have the security become an Innovation Hub. of acontract and access to a wealth of expertise at Innovation Hubs are practical and inspiring my fingertips. Designed to be local, relatable, and accessible,Field Days offer education and connectionthose demonstration farms trial practices toFood producers can be an essential part of determine how they can positively impactengaging and supporting the next generation yields while building resilience, enhancing soilof farmers. Last summer, Poulson hosted an health, and using resources wisely. InnovationInnovation Hub Field Day on his farm. The goal was Hubs bring commercial-scale research trials intoto share knowledge and expertise about regen growing regions to provide centers of learningag practices, his successes, and how to address and transparency. McCains Innovation Hubs arechallenges. Understanding that nearly one-third of a tool to showcase the benefits of regen ag toall U.S. growers have farmed for 10 years or less, this everyone, including previous generations. Poulsoneducation is valuable. Poulson smiled, The daysaid, I have a strong relationship with my dadwas full of real connections! It was great to be able and we worked side-by-sideto demonstrate what was working and whatfor a while. With thewasnt. Regen ag has learning curve for everyone McCain Innovationand participating in that event brought a lot of Hub, he could seepositive responses. To learn more about succession planning for growers, listen to McCains Hot Potato Podcast, Succession in the Field.We are McCainmccain.com/sustainability/in-action/'