Vermont Agriculture Faces Challenges and Opportunities: A Historical Perspective
Vermont’s agricultural identity is deeply intertwined with its dairy farms, even as their numbers have dwindled dramatically from 25,000 in 1930 to approximately 500 today. This decline raises questions about the future of farming in the state. In his new book, Turning the Soil: 250 Years of Vermont Agriculture, former Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Roger Allbee provides insights into the state’s agricultural evolution and prospects.
The book, published by White River Press in collaboration with the University of Vermont’s Center for Research on Vermont, chronicles Vermont’s agricultural history over 5,000 years, starting with the Abenaki’s cultivation of corn, beans, and squash. Despite significant challenges such as climate change, labor shortages, and competition from larger Western farms, Allbee remains optimistic that Vermont agriculture can thrive through innovative solutions.
Current trends reveal a shift in the farming landscape. Although dairy farming dominates, accounting for 58% of farm income, Vermont has seen a notable rise in farms diversifying their product offerings. The University of Vermont reports that in 2022 there were 6,537 farms, with a significant shift from dairy farming to alternative products over the past two decades.
Growing support for local food systems and government initiatives, including funding programs for younger farmers, indicates a reemergence of interest in agriculture. Allbee’s reflections convey that while farming in Vermont has never been easy, resilience and adaptability are key traits that have allowed farmers to navigate changing market demands.
As Allbee articulates, “the future of farming will depend on how farmers, policymakers, and communities embrace these challenges.” His book serves as a reminder of the vital role agriculture plays in Vermont’s heritage, identity, and future. Available at local bookstores and libraries, Turning the Soil aims to deepen the understanding of Vermont’s working landscape.
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