James Keys and Hannah Brown have had a challenging year and a half at Primrose Farm and Bakehouse. Starting the farm in December 2022 on a 4-acre plot in Missoula, they have worked tirelessly at farmers markets, raising bees and chickens, and even making their own flour. The couple’s dedication to farming is fueled by their love for the work, despite its challenges.
Keys, 26, and Brown, 27, are part of a growing community of young farmers in Missoula facing obstacles in the industry. The USDA’s 2022 census revealed that the median age of farmers in Montana was 59.3 years old, with only 8% classified as “young producers” under 34 years old.
One of the major hurdles for young farmers is accessing and affording land. Many, like Katie Madden and Max Smith of Winter Kissed Farm, have struggled to secure farmland without family inheritance or significant assets. However, innovative solutions and supportive organizations like Trust Montana aim to provide opportunities for young farmers to thrive.
The journey for farmers like Ellie Costello, Trust Land Farm’s operator, has been marked by perseverance and resilience in the face of land acquisition challenges. Despite the obstacles, young farmers like Costello are determined to build sustainable and thriving agricultural businesses.
With the support of organizations like CFAC, young farmers in western Montana are offered resources and training to navigate the complexities of starting a farm operation. The collaborative efforts of these organizations and the passion of individuals like Britta Janssen and Sam Robison of Small Talk Farm are shaping a future where sustainable farming practices thrive.
As young farmers continue to overcome challenges and carve out their path in the industry, the community’s recognition and support are crucial for the growth and sustainability of local agriculture. Through dedication, hard work, and a shared vision, the next generation of farmers is creating a vibrant and resilient farming landscape in Missoula and beyond.
Alexia Partouche is a news intern for the Missoulian.
