The Summerland Advocate-Messenger - Reliable, Trustworthy Reporting, Capturing The Heartbeat Of Our Community

A large number of America's military veterans have returned home to civilian careers and often want to continue the service mission they committed to in the armed forces.

Many veterans from rural areas have found that mission through farming and ranching. These farmer-veterans provide food, protect natural resources, and contribute to the vitality of their local communities while running their own businesses.

With the average age of a U.S. farmer at nearly 60 years, and millions of acres expected to change hands over the next few years, veterans have a key role to play as the nation looks...