Young Manitoba farmer literacy for long term farm viability

Abstract

The perceptions of young farmers about what is necessary for them to achieve farm business sustainability are explored using a phenomenological research design with an interview approach. Six young farmers suggest eight key themes as necessary for sustainability into the next generation: characteristics such as adaptability, passion, work-life balance and human resource skills and literacy strategies which include adult education, economic viability, environmental and socio-political literacy, and change management. Participants linked their farm business sustainability to the personal characteristics of lifespan learning, adaptability, and passion for farming. They seem to understand agricultural sustainability in the context of the economic, socio-political, and environmental aspects of their farm business. Their change management strategies account for their personal and their family needs as well as those required by regulatory bodies. Recommendations are offered in support of family farm business sustainability.