SUMMER FUN FARM TOUR RESOURCES

With the release of the Produce Safety Rule in November 2015, many produce growers have been wondering if or how the rule will affect them and when. This session will detail the key components of FSMA for produce growers to answer questions about the rule and how it will affect their specific operation. While not all produce growers will be covered under the Produce Safety Rule, producing safe food is important to all of us. While we like to think that our efforts naturally lead to safe products, fresh fruit and vegetable producers need to be deliberate about reducing the risk of contamination of the food supply. Fortunately, safe food production and handling practices can seamlessly be incorporated into the day-to-day operations on most farms. This session will cover key recommendations for safe food production for fresh fruit and vegetable producers.

One of the most common questions received by agriculture organizations is “How to I get a grant to buy a farm (or purchase equipment or livestock)”.
This session dives into the world of funding, including grants and loans, for beginning and experience farmers:
What is a grant? Common grant terminology. Grant writing tips. What could go wrong? Where to look for grants, loans, and help?

Finding a grant program that is suitable for a farm is challenging and writing a good grant proposal is a time-consuming task.
This handout provides tips for questions to ask yourself before you launch your search for a grant; how to evaluate whether your project fits the grant program; and guidance for how to get rolling once you’ve identified a suitable program.

The day’s educational session focuses on solid record keeping practices for your farm and developing a business plan.