Student to present on vets and future farmers
November 7, 2014
Sgt. Andrew Rondeau, UW-River Falls horticulture student, will present "Getting Started in Farming: Veterans and a New Generation" at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 13, in the Kinnickinnic Theater in the University Center on campus.
The presentation is free and open to the public. Young farmers and veterans are especially encouraged to attend.
The event's timing was chosen to coincide with Veteran's Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11.
The average age of farmers is 58 and rising. A new generation of self-motivated, business- minded people is necessary to fill future demand. Included in this new generation are veterans who, through farming, are presented with a unique opportunity to be their own boss and continue to serve by feeding the world.
Rondeau will examine these growing interests, opportunities and concerns for farming in the next generation.
Rondeau served in the military from 1999-2011 before enrolling at UWRF in the fall of 2011. He will graduate in December and intends to apply for the UWRF Master of Science in Agricultural Education program. His professional goals include working for the UW-Extension or starting a veteran-to-farmer program to help veterans start a career in agriculture.
For more information, contact Veteran Services Coordinator Sharon Seidl at 715-425-3529 or sharon.seidl@uwrf.edu.