Education and Training

"Many a farm operation has been sunk by “shiny equipment syndrome”; in other words, purchasing too much brand new equipment. On the other end of the scale, many new farmers have burned out their bodies by not adequately powering their farms with machinery.

"What do you need to do to prepare for operating your business with sound financial information? Every business creates a great number of records in a variety of media. This course will concentrate on financial record keeping systems.

"This course is designed to help aspiring or beginning farmers better assess and manage a variety of risks that farmers face in operating their farms.  Throughout the six week period, topics essential for operating a farm business will be discussed.

Have an idea for a farm enterprise but not sure if it’s feasible? This course will get you started exploring the potential markets and profitability of your ideas.

Evaluating what you want to do and what you have available to work with are key elements to a successful new farm enterprise.

A Plain Language Guide from the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project. In this guide you will learn about wholesale marketing requirements.

A Plain Language Guide from the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project. In this guide you will learn about: processing raw fruits and vegetables into a finished product that you can sell; preparing for a specialty food business; packaging and selling your value-added product.

A Plain Language Guide from the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project. In this guide you will learn about: the benefits and costs of extending the growing season; simple methods of season extension; materials and costs for season extension.

A two-page overview of Good Agricultural Practices geared specifically towards sustainable, small-scale fruit and vegetable producers.

A two-page overview of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and how it impacts small farmers selling their product in "local" markets.