Utah Creates a Development Strategy

Utah's vulnerable agriculture sector has been identified as the focus of a state commission. The Utah Agricultural Sustainability Task Force developed the report, which addresses particular challenges to the state's agricultural sector as well as proposed remedies to keep the farm industry thriving.

Rural development and population expansion are two of the most serious problems facing the state. Utah is one of the nation's fastest-growing states. However, this expansion is a two-edged sword, providing tremendous prospects for economic development but at the expense of agriculture. "We welcome the increase," Lieutenant Governor Greg Bell stated, "but we must plan for its impact on agriculture."

According to the task committee, population growth by 2030 will need the development of over 200,000 acres of agricultural land, which would be disastrous to the agricultural sector if lost.

Aside from development, the state is experiencing a severe labor shortage. Utah agriculture officials tried to create their own state work visas earlier this year, allowing immigrants to live and work in the state without having to seek citizenship.

Aside from immigration issues, state agriculture officials need to generate $1 million to combat invasive pests and fund conservation easements. This is why Utahan farmers and ranchers are in the look for agricultural loans that can help them with their business. They can use the money for farming purposes, to upgrade their irrigation systems, or to buy new equipment. This can be a good way for farmers to get the money they need to keep their businesses running smoothly.