But while there is consensus that agriculture makes a vital contribution to both our economy and our quality of life, little attention is paid to issues of scale and structure within the sector. A truly effective agriculture policy requires both the ability to anticipate trends in these important areas and a commitment to address the needs of the full range of our agricultural production enterprises. As we know, public policies can shape our future as well as respond to current situations. If we are to successfully set and meet policy objectives, both short term and long range goals must be clearly articulated. For example, a close look at USDA statistics tells us that the vast majority of our farmers are small scale, part-time and limited resource producers.
Agriculture policy impacts their ability to manage successful farms.
According to presenters at USDA's recent National Small Farm Conference, these farms have a unique profile with regard to personal, family and financial goals and objectives. Through sheer numbers, they contribute significantly to the economic vitality of our agricultural infrastructure and disproportionately to the overall production of certain commodities, including specialty crops and fruits. With their unique profile comes a unique set of policy sensitive needs. Specific federal programs target limited resource farmers, but they are not always successfully implemented. Here in Massachusetts, most of our farms experience both the pressures and opportunities that come from farming on the urban fringe.