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USDA providing funding for beginner farmers and ranchers

Applications due March 13, 2015

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

Krysta Harden, Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a pool of more than $18 million in funding to help in the education, mentorship and enhanced sustainability of the next generation of American farmers and ranchers.

The funding is made available through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) that receives its money from the USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA).

"The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program is critical for cultivating the next generation of farmers and ranchers, who will be integral to sustaining America's agricultural future," said Harden in a release. "Leading community and service organizations are on the front lines when it comes to identifying and training new farmers and ranchers. Strong partnerships with these groups are the key to our success."

Eligible parties for funding include regional partnerships, private or public entities, colleges, universities, or any organization deemed to provide beginning training services consistent with the needs of a beginning farmer or rancher. Funding recipients must give at least 5% to military veterans transitioning into farming and ranching, and another 5% to farmers whose resources are limited or need social assistance.

Topics said to be priorities include:

  • Basic practices in livestock, forest management and crop farming
  • Financial benchmarking
  • Risk management
  • Safety and awareness
  • Availability of apprenticeship, internship and mentorship opportunities

NIFA will present a free webinar for anyone interested on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Applications for funding support are due Friday, March 13, 2015.

From 2009-2012, 145 awards have been given through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, totaling more than $71 million.


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