A recent Leader article about the closing of the Bishop Dairy brings up a common difficulty for farmers – dependable and committed workers to take the farm into the next generation.

As one of the two remaining commercial dairies in this county, at Mystery Bay Farm I am committed to farming today and well into the future. I also know that I must support and inspire a younger generation’s interest in farming.

Almost 10 years ago, a small group of local farmers created the FIELD (Farm Innovation, Education, Leadership and Development) program as a legal, certified internship program. It works in collaboration with WSU Jefferson County Extension, local farms and educators. Participating farms host an intern who participates in farm work as well as biweekly class days (on or off the farm), all culminating in an independent project and continuing education credits.

Here are some great statistics about the program: 58 interns since 2010; 38 percent have remained in Washington state with the majority staying in Jefferson County; 61 percent have stayed in the food and farm sector; 39 percent are doing non-farm work; average number of interns in the program – 11.

Our hope is that the FIELD program, and others like it, will help inspire a new generation of well-trained, educated and experienced farmers.

May we all feel as passionate about our work, our land and our animals as Gerald Bishop does.

RACHAEL VAN LAANEN

Marrowstone Island