Young Midlands Ranchers Face Crisis, Seek Aid.
Young cattle farmers in the Midlands risk losing their ranches amid harsh drought and rising costs. Local MP Henry Elsworth raised the alarm at yesterday's Que Que Farmers Association meeting.
Elsworth told the group that these skilled ranchers face pressure to sell their breeding herds at low prices to pay off debts. The crisis affects 20 to 30 young farmers in the region.
Agriculture Minister Mark Partridge agreed to meet the struggling ranchers in a closed session. The farmers need time to weather the recession, not price hikes or subsidies, Elsworth said.
"These ranchers just need a chance to survive this year, perhaps next," said Elsworth, himself a cattle farmer. He stressed the group's strong farming skills, noting economic forces, not poor management, caused their troubles.
The planned meeting offers hope to young farmers who are seeking ways to keep their herds intact during the downturn.
Young cattle farmers in the Midlands risk losing their ranches amid harsh drought and rising costs. Local MP Henry Elsworth raised the alarm at yesterday's Que Que Farmers Association meeting.
Elsworth told the group that these skilled ranchers face pressure to sell their breeding herds at low prices to pay off debts. The crisis affects 20 to 30 young farmers in the region.
Agriculture Minister Mark Partridge agreed to meet the struggling ranchers in a closed session. The farmers need time to weather the recession, not price hikes or subsidies, Elsworth said.
"These ranchers just need a chance to survive this year, perhaps next," said Elsworth, himself a cattle farmer. He stressed the group's strong farming skills, noting economic forces, not poor management, caused their troubles.
The planned meeting offers hope to young farmers who are seeking ways to keep their herds intact during the downturn.
