The Overcoming Risk During Climate Variability: The Importance
of Recordkeeping in Small Scale Farming project addressed the growing threats
posed by climate change—such as warming temperatures, shifting seasons, and
changes in precipitation—that impact farm viability across the Northeast. This
initiative supported small-scale, beginning, specialty crop, and socially
disadvantaged producers by enhancing their ability to manage production,
marketing, and financial risks through improved recordkeeping and data
management practices.
New Entry reaches its audience through a multifaceted approach.
The Incubator Training Program assists farmers in developing business ventures,
while the Food Hub connects small-scale producers to local markets. Outreach
includes a newsletter reaching 9,619 subscribers, a farmer-specific newsletter
sent to 2,667 recipients, and a social media presence of >8,000 followers.
Targeted outreach includes partnerships with veteran career centers and
organizations serving BIPOC communities to ensure culturally appropriate
resources reach marginalized populations.
The project offered six training sessions, six farmer-to-farmer
learning circles, access to The Farmers' Office (online business planning and
record-keeping tools), and individual coaching sessions. These efforts improved
producers' abilities to collect accurate data, make informed decisions, and
assess their readiness for federal safety net programs, thereby enhancing farm
resilience. A total of 185 unique individuals actively participated in the project, including 112 who engaged with the workshop series and 73 in the Farmer Learning
Circles. Additionally, 86 farmers received 408.2 hours of technical assistance and 26
farmers accessed the Farmers Office learning resources, and 2 interns who
assisted in compiling resources, generating learning materials, and evaluating
the project.
The project surpassed its estimated outcomes, particularly in
financial record-keeping and climate risk management. Eight producers
successfully secured funding to enhance operations, achieving goals such as
funding for high tunnels, equipment loans, and improved infrastructure. These
outcomes highlight the project’s significant impact on farm viability through
enhanced record-keeping and access to financing.