Oct 8, 2015 2 min read

Penn State Extension is teaming up with established farmers to help new farmers become more profitable, productive and sustainable.

With funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher project, the Penn State Start Farming team is offering study circles, courses and “Models for the Future” demonstration plots.

The extension has partnered with seven growers across Pennsylvania to participate in the Models for the Future program, which will provide on-farm demonstration sites that illustrate best management practices and provide living classrooms for developing new farmer networks. Each of the seven growers have been maintaining vegetable, berries and/or fruit trees, for three years.

Farmers who are in years two to 10 of their operations have agreed to provide study circle discussion groups. Study circle networks are located in four hubs across the state.

Study circles are held in an informal environment that allows beginning farmers to learn from experienced growers and experts, compare notes with peers and network over a shared meal. The farmers’ interests will guide the meetings and meeting topics, from production practices to marketing techniques and business strategies.

Study circle event announcements will be posted at http://extension.psu.edu/start-farming. To find a network, email Marley Skinner at mvs6271@psu.edu.

The Pennsylvania Women’s Agricultural Network works to encourage and support women in agriculture. PA-WAgN study circles will allow female farmers to expand their networks with one another, educators and experts throughout the course of their start-up, restrategizing and establishing phases of their agricultural enterprise. To find a network, contact Patty Neiner 814-865-7031 or prn103@psu.edu.

As the farming population ages, providing support and training opportunities to new growers is increasingly important. Penn State Extension fruit specialists, along with the help of experienced growers, will hold 10 sessions that provide new growers with in-depth knowledge and best management practices specifically related to fruit production and marketing.

Class topics will include economics of orchard start-up; plant, soil and water relations; soil fertility, variety and root-stock selection; major insect pests and diseases; integrated/organic pest management; pruning; fruit thinning; harvesting; farm food safety; and marketing. Classroom and on-farm sessions will include discussion, hands-on exercises and farmer speakers.

For more information, visit extension.psu.edu/start-farming.