Are Extension Agriculture Programs Hitting Their Target With Military Veterans?
Abstract
The desire to support military veterans has led to a variety of targeted Extension programs, but the types and availability of these programs vary substantially. After reviewing the size and diversity of the U.S. veteran population, we examine one of the main USDA programs targeting veterans: the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development program. We then use matrix analysis to categorize veteran support programs across other program areas. Finally, we compare these programs with veterans' needs, as described in recently conducted veteran focus groups, and conclude by highlighting gaps and opportunities for improving Extension programming for veterans, including substantially improving program publicization.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Education and Military Integration
Diverse Educational Innovations Studies
Agriculture and Farm Safety
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Extension
- Publisher
- Extension Journal Inc.
- Volume
- 64
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 16 July 2026
- Language
- EN