Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/24

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project will be from these Bladen, Johnston and all the counties surrounding one of the world's largest Military Installation (Fort Bragg). These majority of these counties also fall within the heart of USDA Strike Force Initiative counties which are mostly persistent poverty counties. In the targeted project area, there are many veterans who own or belongs to families that are landowners who had depended on tobacco and other traditional farming and are now seeking alternative farming enterprises to put their lands in production. It is imperative that the younger generation of veteran who have completed their duty are enticed and recruited back into agriculture by providing them with real life applications and the use of modern and innovative technology in farming. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?hand-on "learning while doing" mentorship training on a demostration farm workshop and training classes for value added and business management skills connecting farmers to resources summits to increase participation and awareness in USDA and othercritical agencies programs How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?• Workshop and conferences • New paper articles distributed in the project targeted area • WSFG newsletters and flyers • Social Media and word of mouth testimonials from current participants • Community outreach and workshops • Radio Interviews • Participations at Job fairs and exhibitions What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? A total of 66new and beginning veteran farmers were enrolled in the program 9-month a year "learning by doing" apprenticeship training program on a Model Farm. The participants received hands on training from a seasoned educator, veteran and farmer on many aspects of sustainable agriculture production and farm management. Training extended from land preparation, growing and nurturing seedlings from the greenhouses, transplanting and row cropping, raised beds (an innovative Agri ability practice useful for the disabled), crop maintenance, harvesting and marketing of several kinds of exotic vegetables production. In addition, participants received training through our Business and Entrepreneurial Academy in best business/farm management practices becoming computer literates, learning to keep business and farm records electronically among others. Value added training workshops from a certified nutritionist enabled participants to learn and practice canning and jamming of farm produce to add value and increase shelf/storage life About 320 people attended workshops and presentations from USDA representatives to increase awareness and knowledge on USDA programs and resources The first year of the three-year program was a learning experience for everyone. The focus was on educating veterans about the vast possibilities within horticulture and agriculture, integrating both the science and art of growing plants for consumption and aesthetics. Veterans of all ages and backgrounds participated, and classes were split into three sectors over 18 weeks: lectures, hands-on learning in the garden, and value-added classes, such as canning and drying berries. Whitaker Small Farm Group, Inc. held classes six (6) times a month, with Mondays dedicated to hands-on learning in the garden and Wednesdays and Thursdays focused on lectures and skill-building sessions. In the garden, participants practiced essential techniques like safely applying pesticides and fertilizers to protect crops. They grew watermelon, squash, tomatoes, and cucumbers while learning cultivation methods to maintain a healthy garden. The classroom instruction complemented the garden work, deepening participants' understanding of sustainable agriculture. By the second year, the program began to hit its stride. Classes were moved a new site that provided more accessibility for the veterans in a more intimate setting, better facilitating learning. This shift gave way to more creative freedom for Ms. Olsen to share her passion for horticulture, allowing the program to flourish. Throughout the 18-week program, participants dove into hands-on gardening, agriculture, and sustainability skills. Lessons covered everything from mastering insect control and disease prevention to the art of fertilizing, weed-taming, and garden upkeep. Participants also explored soil care, tips for houseplants and fruit growing, weed management, garden maintenance, irrigation, micro-irrigation, soil care, house plant and fruit cultivation, plus eco-friendly practices like recycling and reusing. Hands-on sessions brought the class instruction to life, allowing participants to actively engage with the various topics discussed. Veterans would get the opportunity to enact the newly learned knowledge and techniques in the garden. Where they were able to experience growing tomatoes, watermelons, squash, cucumbers, mushrooms, rosemary, strawberries, and more, including edible and non-edible plants. Participants even had the chance to use a greenhouse for year-round planting. Fun activities involved repotting houseplants, experimenting with fertilizers, and learning creative ways to repurpose materials. Participants were taught how to properly maintain the equipment needed to grow and successfully maintain the garden. Participants through the Business Academy also had hands on in class training on Using Excel for Records keeping, how to develop a business plan and tips on filing your Taxes schedule F. The program's impact was reflected in the participants' stories. The program's commitment to sustainable practices and fostering a hands-on learning environment helped participants gain valuable skills while promoting community and environmental stewardship. The "Value Added" component of the project has provided veterans with a comprehensive approach to gardening and food preparation that goes well beyond basic cultivation. Participants learned essential skills in canning and preserving, enabling them to turn their harvested produce into meals that could be enjoyed year-round. This included drying and canning strawberries, blueberries, and various garden crops, as well as learning methods for preserving meats. Value-added classes featured a "Food of the Month" focusing on seasonal crops grown in the garden. This allowed participants to engage with the produce they harvested, honing their cooking skills while developing a deeper understanding of nutrition and food preparation. In addition to practical gardening skills, the program conducted a "Connect farmers to resources Summit" that exposed and increased awareness of farmers to resources that are available through USDA. Agencies represented include NRCS, FSA and Rural Development. The project also offered critical resources for veterans, particularly those with disabilities. This included support systems to help them access necessary assistance, making the program not only about agriculture but also about overall well-being. Importantly, the program fostered a strong sense of community among participants, many of whom had faced physical and mental challenges. The classes created a collegial atmosphere of mutual respect, collaboration, and teamwork. Veterans built friendships and discovered new ways to engage with their environment, emphasizing the value of working together and recognizing each individual's contributions. This holistic approach ensured that participants not only gained practical skills but also found a supportive network, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Publications

Progress 09/01/23 to 08/31/24

Outputs
Target Audience:The project continued to reach and significantly impacted veterans in Fayetteville, and its surrounding counties, particularly Johnston, Cumberland and Bladen Counties. These are counties surrounding one of the world's largest Military Installation (Fort Bragg). The target audience recruited were Veteran of all ages and background who have completed their duty and are transitioning into civilian workforce with an interest in Agriculture as some had been exposed earlier in their youthful years and will like to be refreshed with modern techniques. Most of the recruitment was by word of mouth from past and continuing program beneficiaries. We also conducted community outreaches and workshops, distributed newspaper articles and publicity as well as engaging community leaders and groups. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Project participants travelled to the NC State University Mountain Horticulture Crops Research and Extension Center in Asheville, NC for an exclusive tour of the research facility. Participants had a full day learning about groundbreaking agricultural research. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Workshop and conferences New paper articles distributed in the project targeted area WSFG newsletters and flyers Social Media and word of mouth testimonials from current participants What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? In the third year of the project, we continued with our on-farm hands-on training. The project beneficiaries received training 3 days a week for 2 weeks in a month for 9 months. Throughout the 18-week program, participants dove into hands-on gardening, agriculture, and sustainability skills. Lessons covered everything from mastering insect control and disease prevention to the art of fertilizing, weed-taming, and garden upkeep. Participants also explored soil care, tips for houseplants and fruit growing, weed management, garden maintenance, irrigation, micro-irrigation, soil care, house plant and fruit cultivation, plus eco-friendly practices like recycling and reusing. Hands-on sessions brought the class instruction to life, allowing participants to actively engage with the various topics discussed. Veterans would get the opportunity to enact the newly learned knowledge and techniques in the garden. Where they were able to experience growing tomatoes, watermelons, squash, cucumbers, mushrooms, rosemary, strawberries, and more, including edible and non-edible plants. Participants even had the chance to use a greenhouse for year-round planting. Fun activities involved repotting houseplants, experimenting with fertilizers, and learning creative ways to repurpose materials. Participants were taught how to properly maintain the equipment needed to grow and successfully maintain the garden. Participants through the Business Academy also had hands on in class training on Using Excel for Records keeping, how to develop a business plan and tips on filing your Taxes schedule F. The program's impact was reflected in the participants' stories. The program's commitment to sustainable practices and fostering a hands-on learning environment helped participants gain valuable skills while promoting community and environmental stewardship. The "Value Added" component of the project has provided veterans with a comprehensive approach to gardening and food preparation that goes well beyond basic cultivation. Participants learned essential skills in canning and preserving, enabling them to turn their harvested produce into meals that could be enjoyed year-round. This included drying and canning strawberries, blueberries, and various garden crops, as well as learning methods for preserving meats. Value-added classes featured a "Food of the Month" focusing on seasonal crops grown in the garden. This allowed participants to engage with the produce they harvested, honing their cooking skills while developing a deeper understanding of nutrition and food preparation. In addition to practical gardening skills, the program conducted a "Connect farmers to resources Summit" that exposed and increased awareness of farmers to resources that are available through USDA. Agencies represented include NRCS, FSA and Rural Development. The project also offered critical resources for veterans, particularly those with disabilities. This included support systems to help them access necessary assistance, making the program not only about agriculture but also about overall well-being. Importantly, the program fostered a strong sense of community among participants, many of whom had faced physical and mental challenges. The classes created a collegial atmosphere of mutual respect, collaboration, and teamwork. Veterans built friendships and discovered new ways to engage with their environment, emphasizing the value of working together and recognizing each individual's contributions. This holistic approach ensured that participants not only gained practical skills but also found a supportive network, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Publications

• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Farm Forward: Agriculture & Community Skills for Veterans Taught Through Whitaker Small Farm Group, Inc. The Carolinian - Ag Grow Culture. A Newspaper Features Article Thursday November 28 - December 5, 2024 Edition.

Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23

Outputs
Target Audience:The project continued to recruit Veterans from Bladen, Johnston, and all the counties surrounding one of the world's largest Military Installation (Fort Bragg). The target audience recruited are relatively younger generation of Veteran who have completed their duty and are transitioning into civilian workforce with an interest for Agriculture. Most of these potential veteran farners have access to family or personal farmland and need to acquire the know how to cultivate their lands. After a successful first year we had an interested group that served as ambassodor through word of mouth to recruit friends and collegues. We conducted community outreaches and workshops, newspaper articles and publicity as well as engaging community leaders and groups. Changes/Problems:No changes are needed. Project will continue to be executed as stated in the initial work plan. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Business and Entrepreneural Academy- training in business plan development, records keeping sourcing for credit and Tax prepation Participants attanded theMinority Farmers and Landowners Conference in Lumberton, theNorth Carolina Landscape Associations Green and Grow Show inGreensboro, NC. these are both opportunities for program participants and project team to learn new and current techques in the industry How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Workshop and conferences Participation in job fairs New paper articles WSFG newsletters and flyers Social Media, WSFG FaceBook Page What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue with phase two of the immersive training and recruit more people to meet our target

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? We continued with our on-farm hands-on training. The project beneficiaries received training 3 days a week for 2 weeks in a month for 9 months. The first session of 18 months of training has been completed. The participants received handon training from Land preparation,growing and nurturing seedlings from the greenhouses, transplanting and row cropping,raised beds (an innovative Agri ability practice useful for the disabled), crop maintenance, harvesting and marketing of several kinds of exotic vegetables production. They also received training in business and farm management as well as practical sessions in the kitchen processing farm produce to add value and increase self/storage life. Participants also went on farm visits, visited several farmers markets for their marketing training and also attanded the Conect farmers to Ag. resources conference where they had the chance to meet USDA reps and were made aware of several USDA programs and resources. 12 Veterans were engaged in 12 monthsof experiential on-farm training and mentored by award winning farmers increased knowledge in the importance of soil sample testing and interpretation of soil test results increased knowledge in repairing and maitaning two cycle engine tools, back pack sprayers and farm tools increased knowledge in seeding and maintaining healthy nurseries for cabbage, cauliflower, celery, broccoli, lettuce and other early spring crops increase knowledge in asexual propagation of fruittrees, vines and shrub increase knowledge in mushroom logs and inoculation 12 Veterans acquired knowledge in value added, busbiness management and marketing increase knowledge in canning and jaming of farm produce increase knowledge in business planing increase knowledge in the functions and operations of the farmers market as a channel to sale to the local community About 40 people attended workshops and presentations from USDA representatives to increase awareness and knowledge on USDA programs and resources

Publications

• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Veterans Farming Program offers free training, January 10, 2023, UP & COMMING WEEKLY, online newspaper article available @ https://www.upandcomingweekly.com/local-news-briefs/9432-veterans-farming-program-offers-free-training

Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22

Outputs
Target Audience:The project began this reporting year and as proposed we recruited Veterans fromBladen, Johnston and all the counties surrounding one of the world'slargest Military Installation (Fort Bragg). Majority of these counties also fall within the heart of USDA Strike Force Initiative counties which are mostly persistent poverty counties. The target audience recruited are relatively younger generation of veteran who have completed their duty and are transitioning into civilian workforce and have an interest for Agriculture. This project uses a delivery effortthat is specifically tailored to addressthe barriers faced by new beginning veteran farmers. This includes using experiential training through apprenticeship and mentoring on a model farm, classroom-based workshops and hands-on activities to build knowledge and skills required to make well informed business decisions and to operate sustainable and profitable farms. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Program director and field manager and host farmers attended a Small Farm Conference at the Virginia State University and North Carolina A&T state University How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Through Social Media, WSFG FACEBOOK page Community outreach and workshops WSFGnewletters Radio Interviews What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Due to COVID, our major Connecting Farmers to Resources conference was postponed to the next reporting period

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? In the first year of the project, 18 new and begining veteran farmers were enrolled in a 6-month "learning by doing" apprenticeship training program on a Model Farm. The participants received hands on training from from a seasoned educator, veteran and farmer on many aspects of sustainable agriculture production and farm management. Training extended from from land preparation, growing and nurturing seedlings from the greenhouses, transplanting and row cropping, raised beds (an innovative Agri ability practice useful for the disabled), crop maintenance, harvesting and marketing of several kinds of exotic vegetables production. In addition, participants received training through ourBusiness and Entrepreneurial Academy in best business/farm management practices becoming computer literates, learning to keep business and farm records electronically among others. Value added training workshops from a certified nutritionist enabled participants to learn and practivce canning and jamming of farm produce to add value and increase shelf/storage life. Our veterans despite COVID interference have had a very extensive and fruitful training sessios meeting 3 days a week every other week for their immersive training. During this preiod, 18 Veterans completed 6 months of experiential on-farm training and mentored by award winning farmers increased knowledge inSoils, soil and nematode sampling, environmental water, and compost increased knowledge and skill in setting up greenhouse and planting exotic vegetables for the off-season increased knowledge in raising yard livestock such as rabbits and chicken, bee keepingand worms as additional source ofincome increased skill and knowledge on best practices, sustainability and increased profitability 18 Veterans participated in the Business and Entrepreneural Academy increased knowledge and ability to use excel for business and farm records keeping created Business Plans for their proposed farming and business ventures acquired knowledge to can farm produce, make jam and add value to harvested produce for the local market increased knowlegde in diverse farm enterprieses such as bee keeping, yard livestock, worms etc. About 60 people attended workshops and presentations from USDA representatives to increase awareness and knowledge on USDA programs and resources

Publications