New Farmers Learn the Ropes from Oldtimers
New Farmers Learn the Ropes from Oldtimers
Farmers learn fast there's no substitute for experience, and that's why many farmers are getting help from elders in the business who are willing to share their knowledge.
When Bart VerEllen became a farmer, he joined a two-year support and matching-funds program, designed to help beginning farmers succeed.
VerEllen said the mentorship program allowed him to work with experienced farmers who knew the ropes, attend a range of learning events, network with peers and develop a business plan.
"Not only did we go through the process of thinking everything through and putting it down on paper, but we also had input from the program facilitators," VerEllen said. "And we also had financial professionals look at our business plan."
The Savings Incentive Program launched by Practical Farmers in 2010 has served 138 beginning farmers.
In 2016, VerEllen started Apple Creek Farm, where he raises hair sheep. He said he envisions a farm with a sustainable forage system that will support multiple species.
Our goal is in the next year or two I can quit my off-farm job completely and be able to just farm full time," he said. "In addition to the business plan, we've been networking with other beginning farmers and other older, experienced farmers - farmers helping farmers."
The number of younger farmers has decreased since the 2007 Census of Agriculture report.
