The number of farm jobs in the Great Lakes region has declined by 19,000 since 1969, according to a new report from the University of Illinois. The report attributes the decline to the use of labor-saving technologies and farm consolidation.
The report found that the Southeast, Plains, and Great Lakes regions have experienced the greatest absolute and relative declines in farm employment. The Southwest, Rocky Mountain, and Far West regions have seen a net increase in farm employment since 2006.
The decline in farm employment has contributed to rural population loss. Declining populations can lead to a loss of state and federal representation, which can limit access to resources.
The report also found that the decline in farm employment occured at the same time as an increase in the average size of farms. In 1969, the average farm in the Great Lakes region was 218 acres. In 2021, the average farm was 534 acres.
The report concludes that the decline in farm employment is a trend that is likely to continue. However, the report also notes that there are some opportunities for growth in the agricultural sector, such as in the areas of specialty crops and organic farming.
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Categories: Illinois, Business