In a recent editorial, we celebrated news that three county farmers received state grants, but argued more needs to be done to help state farmers.

Thankfully, it seems more help is on the way. It was announced the state will provide $59 million in tax credits over 10 years to residents who sell or rent agricultural land, livestock, equipment or other assets to novice farmers to reduce startup costs.

The inspiration for the Beginning Farmer Tax Credit Program is that the average age of state farmers is 59. If younger people aren’t enticed to take up farming, its future in Pennsylvania could be at risk.

The tax credit program is a good idea. And it comes at a good time.

The past year has been difficult for Pennsylvania farmers, from last summer’s torrential rainstorms — which affected crops — to this summer’s dry weather.

Not surprisingly, COVID-19 has been disastrous for state farms.

Due to the closure of schools and restaurants operating at limited capacity, dairy farms have dumped their milk due to a plummet in demand.

The cancellation of this year’s Butler Farm Show — a huge annual event — also hasn’t helped.

Established farmers have suffered through these problems, but the events of the past year have also done little to encourage those considering a career in farming to take the next step.

The tax credit program could go a long way in helping young farmers clear one of the most difficult hurdles — getting started.

State Sen. Elder Vogel said finding affordable farmland is a top concern for those starting out, while Andy Gaver — a U.S. Department of Agriculture conservationist in Butler County — noted that trying to get started with a lack of startup money, credit or inherited land is very difficult.

Under the tax credit, the departments of Agriculture, Revenue, and Community and Economic Development will set aside up to $5 million this year and up to $6 million each year through 2030 for credits of 5 percent of the lesser of the sale price of fair market value of an agricultural asset, up to $32,000, or 10 percent of the gross rental income of the first, second and third year of the rental agreement, up to $7,000 per year.

Gaver said for beginning farmers, “it’s tough to get the ball rolling.”

We hope this tax credit will do just that for those who want to keep this tradition alive in Pennsylvania.

— NCD