- Author: Chris M. Webb
Funded through the USDA and National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the Start2Farm and the Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development Program were created in partnership with the National Agricultural Library and the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Both programs were developed to assist people those new to farming or ranching, and those who have less than 10 years of experience.
General topics of resources and programs include:
- Learn How – Develop the know-how to run your farm or ranch business
- Find Financing – Find funding opportunities to help finance your farm or ranch business
- Locate Services – Find assistance with legal and technical requirements of farming
- Get Connected – Build relationships and connect with others
While the website is a little challenging to navigate, the resources are fabulous.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
Dedicated to advancing innovation in sustainable agriculture, SARE has many resources and learning opportunities available. At their Learning Center website you will find links to handbooks, bulletins, online courses, fact sheets, videos, newsletters, and more. Hardcopy resources can be ordered through the SARE WebStore. All online resources are available at no cost.
Topics include:
- Animal Production
- Community Development
- Crop Production
- Economic/Marketing
- Education & Training
- Energy Conservation & Renewable Energy
- For consumers
- Integrated Systems
- Natural Resources/Environment
- Pest Management
- Quality of Life
- Soil Management
- Specialty Crops
- Value Added Products
- Author: Chris M. Webb
The NCAT Sustainable Agriculture Project provides “high value information and technical assistance to farmers, rancher, Extension agents, educators, and others” throughout the United States.
Founded in 1976, this nonprofit organization works to “promote self-reliance and sustainable lifestyles through wise use of appropriate technology. Its programs deal with sustainable and renewable energy, energy conservation, resource-efficient housing, sustainable community development, and sustainable agriculture.” These resources are available in Spanish.
Their information is organized under 14 topic areas:
- What is sustainable agriculture?
- Education
- Energy alternatives
- Beginning farmer
- Field crops
- Horticultural crops
- Livestock & pasture
- Local food systems
- Marketing, business & risk management
- Organic farming
- Pest management
- Soils & compost
- Water management
- Other resources
A variety of funding opportunities are available.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
SAREP is a statewide program within the University of California’s Agriculture and Natural Resources division. From their site:
“SAREP provides leadership and support for scientific research and education in agricultural and food systems that are economically viable, conserve natural resources and biodiversity, and enhance the quality of life in the state's communities. SAREP serves farmers, farmworkers, ranchers, researchers, educators, regulators, policy makers, industry professionals, consumers, and community organizations across the state."
Program areas are:
- biologically integrated farming systems
- community food systems
- crop/livestock production
- organic farming information
- methyl bromide alternatives
Related resources, reports, funding opportunities and much more can be easily accessed from this well laid out site.
- Author: Chris M. Webb
Nationwide, through the month of September, we are reminded of the importance of being prepared for disasters. Disasters can strike at anytime. Proper preparation and response can literally mean the difference between life and death.
The Extension Disaster Education Network strives to reduce the impact of disasters through education. The topics and resources on this site are extensive. Some of the resources are available in Spanish.
In addition to online resources course materials, including PowerPoint presentations, are available for use at no cost.
Why not spend a few minutes today and take a step towards better disaster preparation at your home or workplace? Odds are it will be time well spent.