Completed Project Report


Gate to Plate: Targeted Business and Production Management Training for Women, Beginning, and Transitioning Ranchers Selling Meat into the Marketplace.

  • Award Amount: $49,992
  • Regional Center: Southern Extension Risk Management Education Center
  • Grant Program: 2016 Education Projects
  • Project Director: Sarah Blacklin
  • Email: seblackl@ncsu.edu
  • Organization: North Carolina State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Center for Environmental Farming Systems/NC Choices

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Project Overview

Women ranchers; new and diversifying pork, poultry, and beef farmers; and allied meat businesses need targeted business training from “gate to plate” to optimize the use of inputs and select profitable market channels. We used five comprehensive workshops including one full-day and one regional three-day workshop to develop the skills of 230 female and local meat professionals.  Participants gained skills in (1) fencing and pasture management to reduce cross contamination, minimize soil and ground-cover degradation, and reduce fertilizer, fuel, and feed use (2) feeding alternatives that optimize animal performance and reduce feed costs (3) marketing and sales to sell into wholesale or retail markets and manage business growth (4) limiting risk through contracting and liability coverage, and (5) managing business finances to inform business decisions. Additionally, educational videos and resources developed were shared via NC Choices and Amazing Grazing online resources, Cooperative Extension, and state and national networks.

Number of Participants: 230

Outcomes

Project Steps

PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS

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EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS

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REPORTS & EVALUATIONS

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DELIVERY AREA

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