Many of the Afrikaans-speaking farmers who have taken the opportunity to start a new life in the United States will be settling in three states—Idaho, Iowa, and North Carolina.
We take a look at what they can expect to experience in these states – each with their own agricultural communities, and industries.
Idaho
Idaho, located in the northwestern United States, spans approximately 216,000 square kilometres and is home to just over 1.9 million people.
Known for its mountainous landscapes and vast open spaces, Idaho offers a semi-arid climate with cold winters and hot summers.
Blackfoot, a city in southeastern Idaho, is renowned as the “Potato Capital of the World,” reflecting the state’s significant contribution to US potato production.
Agriculture is a cornerstone of Idaho’s economy. Beyond potatoes, the state produces wheat, barley, sugar beets, and hay. Livestock farming is also prominent, with Idaho ranking third in the US for milk production.
The state’s agricultural communities are tight-knit, often centre around family-owned farms that have been passed down through generations.
Iowa
Situated in the Midwestern United States, Iowa covers an area of about 145,700 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 3.2 million.
The state experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. Iowa is often referred to as the “Corn Belt” due to its extensive corn and soybean production.
Agriculture dominates Iowa’s economy. The state leads the nation in corn production and is a top producer of soybeans, hogs, and eggs.
Iowa’s fertile soil and favourable climate conditions make it an ideal location for large-scale farming operations. The farming communities here are known for their innovation, often embracing new technologies to enhance productivity.
North Carolina
Located in the southeastern United States, North Carolina encompasses roughly 139,400 square kilometres and boasts a population exceeding 10 million.
The state’s climate varies from the Atlantic coast to the Appalachian Mountains, generally classified as humid subtropical, with mild winters and hot, humid summers.
North Carolina’s agriculture is diverse, producing tobacco, sweet potatoes, poultry, and pigs. However, the state has faced significant climate-related challenges.
North Carolina’s agricultural communities have to be resilient, often coming together to support one another through cooperative initiatives and shared resources.
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