OLYMPIA - Legislation sponsored by Senator Kevin Ranker, D-Orcas Island, to extend the state's farm internship pilot program was passed by the Senate today.

Under Senate Bill 6392, the pilot program created in 2010 by Ranker would be extended through 2017.

In addition, the original program was so successful that the new program will be expanded to include San Juan, Skagit, Whatcom, Kitsap, Pierce, Jefferson, Spokane, Yakima, Chelan, Grant, Kittitas, Lincoln and Thurston counties.

“With the average age of farmers approaching 60, it’s important that we introduce young people to our agricultural economies,” said Ranker. “This bill gives young people an opportunity to learn from the farmers and will help them explore what a career in agriculture may look like.”

The bill passed unanimously and now heads to the House for further consideration.

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For more information, Michael Althauser, 360-786-7326