Hispanic/Latino/a farmers in Pennsylvania : characteristics, farming challenges, and engagement barriers with non-formal educators

Abstract

The number of Hispanic/Latino/a farmers is on the rise in the United States, and Pennsylvania is not an exemption. However, research about the characteristics and needs of Latino/a farmers in Pennsylvania has not been explored. Similarly, there are no previous research studies about the challenges and opportunities that Cooperative Extension personnel experience when attempting to connect with Latino/a farmers and respond to their agricultural needs. Through semi-structured personal interviews with both groups, this study gathered qualitative data to assess the needs to achieve improved programming for Latino/a farmers in Pennsylvania.