Beginning Farmers/Ranchers Program Available

Beginning farmers and ranchers face a seemingly unlimited number of decisions, from drawing up a business plan and arranging financing to learning what programs are available to make it easier to start up and sustain a successful operation. To help, the National Farmers Union is offering the Beginning Farmer Institute. Individuals who are contemplating starting a career in farming or ranching, and those who have just begun and are in the process of transferring an operation from a parent, relative, or non-relative should apply.

Applicants accepted into the 2012 program will attend three separate education sessions to be held in April in Washington, D.C., November in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and at the NFU Convention in March 2013 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Program topics will cover business planning, understanding U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, tax and record keeping, and marketing.

A 25-dollar registration fee is required for accepted candidates. The NFU Foundation will cover the costs of materials, transportation, and lodging. This program is supported by the NFU Foundation, Farm Credit and CHS Foundation. To apply, visit www.nfu.org/education. The deadline is March 14, 2012.