In the past 40 years, the United States lost more than a million farmers and ranchers. Many of our farmers are aging. Today, only nine percent of family farm income comes from farming, and more and more of our farmers are looking elsewhere for their primary source of income.

Summary

This quote highlights the declining number of farmers and ranchers in the United States over the past four decades, with a loss of over one million individuals in this profession. It emphasizes the aging population of farmers and the increasing trend of seeking alternative sources of income. The significance lies in the changing landscape of American agriculture, where family farm income is no longer primarily derived from farming activities. This indicates a shift in the economic dynamics and challenges faced by the agricultural sector, potentially impacting food production and rural communities.