The government meeting on June 4, 2025, focused on the challenges facing America's aging farm workforce, highlighting the urgent need for policy changes to support family farms. Key testimony was provided by Jim Alderman, a seasoned farmer from Florida, who has been in the industry since 1979 and was recently named the 2025 Florida Farm Bureau Farmer of the Year.

Alderman operates a diversified farming business on 1,200 acres in Eastern Palm Beach County, specializing in organic vegetables and vine ripe tomatoes. He emphasized the unique climate of South Florida, which allows for year-round vegetable production but also presents challenges such as hurricanes, invasive pests, and rising costs. Alderman, now 78 years old, shared his commitment to farming, stating that it requires lifelong dedication and adaptability.

The meeting revealed concerning statistics about the aging farming population in Florida, where the average farmer is now 58 years old, and nearly 40% are 65 or older. This demographic shift raises significant concerns about the future of agriculture in the state and the need for younger farmers to enter the field.

Alderman's testimony underscored the importance of supporting existing farmers and attracting new talent to ensure the sustainability of family farms. The discussions at the meeting highlighted the critical intersection of labor, trade, and agricultural policy, calling for immediate action to address the challenges posed by an aging workforce in the farming sector.