Source: Farm Talk News
The Rural Veterinary Workforce Task Force is marking five years of efforts to strengthen the supply and retention of veterinarians serving rural Kansas. The coalition includes livestock, agriculture, Veterinary, and university organizations concerned about access to routine and emergency animal care.
From 2020 through 2025, the task force mapped 446 large and mixed animal veterinarians statewide to identify coverage gaps. A survey of more than 200 livestock producers found nearly 60% believe Kansas faces a Veterinary shortage.
The coalition also strengthened Kansas State University’s Veterinary Training Program for Rural Kansas, which provides financial incentives for graduates practicing in rural communities. More than 100 students have participated since 2006, and 86% remained in qualifying counties after completing required service. Loan repayment support recently increased to $25,000 annually. The task force also supports a proposed program offering up to $75,000 to early career large animal veterinarians who commit to three years in qualifying rural practices.