 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
||||||||
|
"We need to make it possible for young people...to be involved
in farming. It's imperative for our rural communities and even for the
well-being of our state and nation to encourage and support farming methods
that are good for the environment as well as people friendly."
Since 1998, Farm Beginnings has consistently helped new farm families get established on the land. This hands-on program trains new and transitioning farmers in innovative, low-cost farming practices that sustain both farm families and the land. Classroom topics include values clarification, goal setting, whole farm decision-making, business planning, innovative marketing and creative financing, as well as social, environmental and financial monitoring. Beyond the classroom, on-farm tours and one-on-one mentorships with experienced farmers give participants firsthand opportunities to learn about managed rotational grazing, deep-straw hog production, Community Supported Agriculture and other examples of innovative stewardship farming. Farm Beginnings began in Minnesota, but recently it has served as the model for similar programs in Illinois, Nebraska and North Dakota. In 2001, Heifer International
partnered with the Land Stewardship Project to begin a revolving livestock
loan program. Graduates of Farm Beginnings are eligible to apply for a
no-interest loan of a variety of livestock species, including dairy and
beef cattle, swine, poultry, goats and sheep.
Farm Beginnings Home
|
||||||||
|
©Land Stewardship Project, 2001 |
||||||||
