Learning Resource: Land Access for Beginning and Disadvantaged Farmers

Land Access for Beginning and Disadvantaged Farmers explores one of the most pressing challenges in American agriculture: securing affordable, reliable access to farmland. Written by Leah Penniman for Data for Progress, the report examines how rising land costs, farmland consolidation, discriminatory policies, and limited access to capital continue to prevent many beginning and historically underserved farmers from entering and thriving in agriculture.

The report also connects land access to broader efforts to address climate change, strengthen local food systems, and support regenerative agriculture. Alongside an overview of the challenges, it presents policy recommendations that can help expand equitable access to land and create opportunities for the next generation of farmers.

Whether you're a farmer, land steward, advocate, policymaker, or community leader, this resource offers valuable insights into why land access is foundational to building a more just, resilient, and sustainable food system.

Click to view the resource here.