11/19/2009 7:20:00 AM $17 Million to train beginning farmers and ranchers
More than $17 million in grants will be awarded to 29 institutions to address the needs of beginning farmers and ranchers and enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of U.S. agriculture.
"Beginning farmers and ranchers face unique challenges and need educational and training programs to enhance their profitability and long term sustainability," Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan said. "The training and education provided through these grants will help ensure the success of the next generation of farmers and ranchers as they work to feed people in their local communities and throughout the world."
Merrigan announced the funding in Elgin, Minn., at the Hidden Stream Farm on Nov. 3 and was joined by representatives from the Land Stewardship Project, the local grant recipient that provides local and regional training, education, outreach and technical assistance initiatives that address the needs of beginning farmers and ranchers. Eric and Lisa Klein, the proprietors of Hidden Stream Farm, were some of the first graduates of the Land Stewardship Project's Farm Beginnings course. Since graduating from Farm Beginnings, the Klein's have developed a thriving pasture-based livestock operation that markets pork, chickens and beef in southeast Minnesota and the Twin Cities.
This funding announcement is part of USDA's new 'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' initiative which was launched in September 2009 to emphasize the need for a fundamental and critical reconnection between producers and consumers. 'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' includes such major agricultural topics as supporting local farmers and community food groups; strengthening rural communities; enhancing direct marketing and farmers' promotion programs; promoting healthy eating; protecting natural resources; and helping schools connect with locally grown foods.
Beginning farmers and ranchers interested in participating in any of the education, outreach, mentoring and/or internship activities are asked to contact the grantee institutions listed below.
Fiscal year 2009 recipients from the region include:
• Land Stewardship Project, Minneapolis, Minn., $413,820
• Farmers' Legal Action Group, Inc., St. Paul, Minn., $506,170
• University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Neb., $644,408
• Fort Berthold Community College, New Town, N.D., $614,356
• South Dakota State University, Brookings, S.D., $701,608
Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov.
