On this episode of the Iowa Ag Podcast, we explore why diversification could be important to the future of American agriculture. Dr. Stephanie Mercier, senior policy adviser of the Farm Journal Foundation and author of the article "Why Diversified Farming Could Be the Future for U.S. Agriculture" explains ways to rethink agriculture by adding new crops, integrating livestock, and embracing conservation practices. She says these diversified systems not only reduce financial and environmental risks but also strengthen soil health, biodiversity, and long-term farm resilience amid shifting markets and unpredictable weather.
The conversation also highlights the challenges of change. From upfront costs and market limitations to policy incentives that still favor large-scale monocrops, the transition to diversified farming requires support and innovation. Yet as climate pressures rise and consumers demand more sustainable food, diversified farms could add more choices for farmers and resilience to the food system.
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