Project Overview
The major focus of the Risk Management Educational Program entitled "Fabric for Farming" was financial management with emphasis on marketing, record-keeping, insurance products, liability, strategic planning, and managing change with respect to policy and environmental regulations. The educational method consisted of an two month series of eight intensive workshops given in three locations of the South-central 5-county region of New York. Class time with industry professionals and farmer panels was augmented by link-ups with established farms and farmers, scholarships to other pertinent workshops, tours and conferences, and further training as needed. Participants demonstrated targeted interest in livestock, vegetable, maple, agro-forestry, cut flowers, value-added fabric products, fruit, and value-added dairy. Participants networked with each other during the school, providing the motivation to develope a plan and start-up operations on a small scale basis. Those already farming were able to make decisions concerning diversification. During the second year, participants were provided scholarships to attend conferences and tours that were targeted toward their crops, products or animals. Support and follow-up from Extension Educators were provided. 12 participants started-up new farm operations; 11 participants diversified either products or marketing avenues; 4 participants decided not to start up a farm operation at this time; 3 participants did not continue with the program after the 8-week school. Overall participant satisfaction was very high, citing resources,networking and Extension follow-up as the three most effective aspects of the program.
Number of Participants: 30
PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS
There are no promotional materials available for this project.
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
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REPORTS & EVALUATIONS
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