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The majority of young farmers and ranchers participating in a survey of the farm economy said they are optimistic. The survey was conducted during the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers summer conference in Shawnee July 24-25.

The survey indicated 88 percent feel good about the farm economy but a less optimistic 66 percent believe this will be a good year for Oklahoma agriculture.

Typical of the comments made was this statement by Will Cubbage, Bartlesville:

“I am somewhat optimistic in the short run,” Cubbage said. “If farm prices improve the last half of the year, this will be a good year. “

Cubbage believes the farm economy has more vitality than the general economy.

“Global issues are contributing to a sluggish general economy,” he said.

Many of the young agriculturists stated the obvious when asked about the economic prospects of agriculture.

“Yes, of course, I am optimistic about the farm economy because the need for food will never go away,” said Amber Fuhrman, Lawton.

“I have to be optimistic or there is no point in farming,” said Gage Milliman, Talala.

When asked to name the biggest obstacles for young farmers and ranchers today, land acquisition, high input costs and government regulation were mentioned most often.

“It’s difficult for a young farmer to get established with high land and equipment prices,” said Clint Wilcox, Fairview.

The OFB Young Farmers and Ranchers conference is annually sponsored by the YF&R committee. In addition to the summer conference, the committee sponsors contests and other activities for young agricultural leaders aged 18-35. Applications are now open for the annual YF&R Achievement award, discussion meet and excellence in agriculture award. For more information contact Marcia Irvin, YF&R Coordinator at (405) 523-2405 or mirvin@okfb.org.

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