By Julie Tomascik
Editor

A new partnership aims to connect the next generation of Texas farmers and ranchers with land, training and mentorship.

The Texas General Land Office (GLO) announced Oct. 7 it is partnering with Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) and Texas A&M University to develop opportunities for beginning farmers and ranchers.

GLO will identify appropriate state land for the initiative, and TFB and Texas A&M will work together to provide hands-on training, mentorship from experienced farmers and ranchers and pathways into production agriculture.

“Texas Farm Bureau looks forward to working with Commissioner Dawn Buckingham on this important initiative,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “Helping the next generation enter agriculture is critical to the future of farming, ranching and rural communities across Texas, and we appreciate the commissioner’s leadership in bringing partners together to explore new opportunities.”

GLO manages more than 13 million acres of state land, including agricultural land leased for grazing and farming. Revenue generated from state lands contributes to the Permanent School Fund that supports public education in Texas.

The partnership will also explore ways to provide farmers and ranchers access to state land while continuing to generate revenue for the Permanent School Fund.

TFB will share information about upcoming GLO land leases with members to help young farmers and ranchers identify available land.

Texas A&M will provide agricultural research, education and Extension expertise. Participants will have opportunities to develop practical skills and learn from experienced farmers and ranchers.

“Food security is national security, and that security starts with making sure we have the people and the land needed to produce the food our families depend on,” Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham said.

Buckingham noted the declining number of U.S. farms and an aging agricultural workforce as challenges the partnership is intended to address.

“This partnership is about putting Texas land to work and giving the next generation of producers a pathway into agriculture,” she said.

The partnership is part of GLO’s Texas Engine initiative, which focuses on using state land and natural resources to strengthen the Texas economy and support national security.