The original project overview sought to address previously identified, ongoing weaknesses in our local agricultural community around succession planning and overall farm viability. As a result, this project was designed to first connect farmers with existing resources in FarmNet and the New York Agricultural Mediation Program, as well as support them in establishing relationships with relevant service providers. Through networking events, one on one support, and professional legal assistance, the project looked to educate farmers about the succession and business planning process, while tackling some of their immediate needs.
The proposed audience emphasis was on transitioning and retiring producers, beginning producers, and small farm operators in Essex County. This proposal was broader and differed slightly from our actual audience in that most of the grant recipients were beginning or established, small farm operators. I think we struggled to reach the retiring producers because they tend to be more insular and less active on social media, email list servs, etc.
We had 16 total farms participating in the program. Our original focus was more towards networking events, but we had to pivot towards 1:1 outreach because lots of farms required nuanced support or regular reminders about deadlines. One of the positive outcomes from this shift was that we were able to transition some of our event/mailing budget to an additional, much needed stipend for a key project.
We will definitely look to broaden our target audience in the future, but the program was universally well received by the farmers, and we have already documented future interest as well as good candidates for a future round of funding. Many participants expressed gratitude for the support and greater confidence navigating future legal needs.