Farm Beginnings & Journeyperson Applications Being Accepted
LEWISTON, Minn.—One of the most comprehensive farmer training initiatives in the country is offering educational and support options for both new and established farmers, beginning this fall. The Land Stewardship Project (LSP) is now accepting applications for its Farm Beginnings Program and the Journeyperson Course.
Farm Beginnings
Farm Beginnings is a 12-month course that helps beginning farmers clarify their goals and strengths, establish a strong enterprise plan and start building their operation. Classes will be held in Pine City, Minn., beginning in October. Nine farmer-led classroom sessions will be held on Saturdays until March 2018, followed by on-farm tours and field days, as well as opportunities to connect with an extensive farmer network.
In 2017, Farm Beginnings is marking its 20th year of providing firsthand training in low-cost, sustainable methods of farming. The course is designed for people of all ages just getting started in farming, as well as established farmers looking to make changes in their operations. Over the years, more than 800 people have graduated from the Minnesota-region Farm Beginnings course. Graduates are involved in a wide range of agricultural enterprises, including grass-based livestock, organic vegetables, Community Supported Agriculture and specialty products.
For more information and to register, click here, or contact Dori Eder at 612-578-4497 (dori@landstewardshipproject.org), or Karen Benson at 507-523-3366 (karenb@landstewardshipproject.org).
Journeyperson
LSP’s two-year Journeyperson Course is designed to support people who have a few years of farm start-up and management experience under their belt, and are working to take their operation to the next level. Through the course, participants gain assistance moving their farming plans forward through advanced financial planning and one-on-one financial advisement; production assistance through mentorship with an experienced farmer; and guidance on balancing farm, family and personal needs.
The course consists of four retreats held in the region over the course of two years, as well as in-depth, individualized work with a financial adviser and a farmer-mentor. Participants who develop and execute a comprehensive financial plan are eligible to have their savings of up to $2,400 matched to invest in a wealth-generating asset for their farm.
For further Journeyperson information and application materials, click here or contact Dori Eder at 612-578-4497 or dori@landstewardshipproject.org.
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