Progress 09/01/19 to 02/28/24
Outputs
Target Audience:In the no-cost extension for the 2019-03631 BFRDG the audience did not change and are described below: In year 4 of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Education Series, the project served historically underserved, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers. This is a continuation of serving participants over the past 3 years of the program. Year 4 of this project was a wind-down of supplemental funding related to COVID-19 investments in farmers unpredictable market fluctuations.. The following is an accounting of the participants over the previous 3 years. Of the counties served, 90% have a per capita income of less than $25,750. Only 10% of the counties served had per capita incomes of more than $25,750. The ten percent was all from Two counties Jefferson and Fayette counties. The per capita income for Fayette county is $28,345.00 and for Jefferson $36,533.00. Of the original 57 participants surveyed, 35 identify as women. Women farmers were 61% of the total participants in this program year. Of the original 57 participants surveyed, 72% (41) identified their ethnicity as Caucasian, 14% (8) identified as African American (an increase of 9% from the previous year), Hispanic, or Latino, 1.7% (1) identified as pacific Islanders and the remaining 12% preferred not to answer. Household income levels surveyed that 60% (34) of participants had a household income above $25,750 and 30% (17) below, $25,750, while 10% (6) preferred not to say their household income levels. Participants not selling farm products during the application period of the program (32) 56%, and those selling made up 37% The average size of the production area at the time of the survey included: 26% (15) had production areas of 2000 square feet to 1 acre, 25% (14) utilized less than 2000 square feet, 12% (7) had no production area, 12% had more than 4 acres in production, 9% had between 1-2 acres (5) in production, and 7% (4)had between 2-4 acres in production. Changes/Problems:This project had a no-cost extension period of ~6 months. The extension was needed due to scheduling issues with the end-of-year conference. The conference overlapped with other agricultural programs in the region. The conference date was adjusted to accommodate more participants to be able to attend. Grow Appalachia and Berea College love this work; thank you for supporting Beginning Farmers! What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?No Cost extension period and Year 4: Supplemental Program: "Supplemental funding will support the costs associated with beginning farmers and staff members pursuing professional development opportunities, including conferences, training opportunities, field days, and other approved continuing education events" Grow Appalachia provided professional Development scholarships to 135+ Beginning Farmers in KY. This included 57 scholarships to the Organic Association of Kentucky, 21 Scholarships to the Eastern Kentucky Farmers Conference, 57 Scholarships to the Peoples Summit "Weaving the Food Web", and 30 scholarships to the Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference. Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference The Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference is relatively new. The conference is committed to bringing black farmers from across Kentucky together to develop peer networks and learn of the successes and challenges black farmers face every day. The conference has included farmers, legislators, educators, cooperative members, and supporting partners. OAK conference: The Organic Association of Kentucky's annual farming conference, now in its 12th year, includes a growing audience of hundreds of Kentuckians and neighbors active in our community food systems: farmers, researchers, nonprofit professionals, federal and state agency partners, allied service providers and conscious consumers working collectively to build a local, resilient and healthy food system. OAK is was proud to host #OAK2023 at Kentucky State University (KSU)'s Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm in Frankfort, Kentucky. The synergy of diverse voices, messages, and approaches combined with the place-based connection to our Kentucky farms, soil, and communities provided a rich foundation for conversation and growth. The primary focus of OAK Conference programming is to highlight is was[CM1] on farm production systems, techniques, and practices - and yet the interwoven threads of community, conservation, and conscious choice-making are inseparable from the sustainable agriculture movement. East Kentucky Farmer Conference The East Kentucky Farmer Conference brings farmers together from across the Eastern Ky communities in central Appalachia. Technical Service Providers, farmers, and support organizations come together to share educational sessions that cover a wide variety of content that addresses the many areas of a farm family's experience. This is also an opportunity for farmers to connect with farmers and discuss the successes and challenges of farming life. Kentucky Local Foods Summit Grow Appalachia staff were provided scholarships to participate in the Kentucky Local Food Summit. The summit provided educational sessions that support Technical Service Providers and food security organizations. This event includes peer-topeer learning opportunities and networking events. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?No Cost Extension period and Year 4: Grow Appalachia disseminates program activities through three primary avenues 1. Annual report : Each year Grow Appalachia develops an end-of-year report that details the activities associated with the Grow Appalachia program. In the 2023 annual report, we will share the accomplishments and appropriate data for the Beginning Farmer Development Program. These annual reports will be disseminated to our funders, appropriate Berea College administrative committee members, a network of non-profit partners, and the general public. 2. Website: Grow Appalachia maintains a website that is housed as part of the more extensive Berea College network. Information on the website details the programs and associated activities for the projects Grow Appalachia delivers. Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Educational Series page where interested individuals can learn more about the program and its impact on the region of focus, Central Appalachia. The Beginning Farmer page is also the location for interested farmers to apply for the program at the start of each fiscal year. The information and data on the website are updated regularly. 3. Social Media:Grow Appalachia maintains a large following on many social media platforms. These include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others. This is where interested individuals can see the most active and live data for the programs we deliver. We use these platforms to educate, invite, and inform the community on how and when to participate in our programs. This is likely the most efficient and broad-reaching tool for disseminating information about Grow Appalachia's programs in general, What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?This is the final report - No expected activity
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
No cost extension period and completion of year 4: Supplemental Program: "Beginning farmers will be awarded a stipend for purchasing tools and supplies that will increase efficiency and resiliency on the farm". Producers received tools, supplies, and nutrient management components throughout year 4 of the Beginning Farmer Series. Farms across Eastern Kentucky were provided access to compost for the fertility of their farms. Grow Appalachia was able to provide 300 cubic yards of compost to foster an increase in organic matter content in the soil. This added fertility increased production volume, quality of harvest, and health and vigor of plants. Farmers received continuing education resources that included books, publications, and access to online farming resources. The types of publications that are provided include Silvopasture, The small poultry flock, Holistic Orchard Care, The Lean Farm, Greenhouse hoop house growers handbook, Living spoil handbook, Farming the Woods, Fiber Shed, Winter Harvest Handbook, Happy Pigs Taste Better, Worm Farmer's Handbook, Market Farming Success, Crop Rotations and Cover Crops, Farming While Black, and The Organic Seed Grower. These books will continue to be a resource beyond the scope of the Beginning Farmer Series. The stipends provided additional resources to farms in products that could be implemented immediately. Many farmers chose to select seeds from reputable suppliers for their coming planting season. The types of seeds order include cover crop seeds, vegetable seeds, and flower seeds. All types of seed provide benefits to the farm either through expanded markets or increased soil health. Additionally, Farmers received physical resources such as Specialized hand tools (scuffle, oscillating, colinear, chop hoes), Hori Hori Gardening knives, wheel hoes, irrigation supplies, and other similar supplies needed for efficient production of crops. Grow Appalachia, utilizing supplemental funding, secured shared-use equipment. The shared-use equipment will be managed by local and regional partners who will make the shared-use equipment available to farmers in their communities. Grow Appalachia invested in small equipment trailers to help folks transport shared-use equipment to their farms, in a safe manner. Honey extractors have been purchased and are available through partners in the region. Honey extractors are comparatively expensive equipment for a small beekeeper to invest in. So, through the shared-use program, farmers can borrow the Report Date Page 2 5 of 06/30/2024United States Department of Agriculture Progress Report Accession No. 1020327 Project No. equipment and gain experience in using it efficiently and may find the need to purchase their equipment based on their experience with the shared-use equipment. Wheel hoes are non-motorized equipment that assist in the cultivation and weed management in the field. The wheel hoes are available to farms to test the efficacy of the farmer's unique production practices. When used properly and at the correct time this equipment can replace hoes and tillers for managing pathways and weed control in the field. W
Publications
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Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23
Outputs
Target Audience:In year 4of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Education Series, the project served historically underserved, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers. This is a continuation of serving participants over the past 3 years of the program. Year 4 of this project was a wind-down of supplemental funding related to COVID-19 investments in farmers unpredictable market fluctuations.. The following is an accounting of the participants over the previous 3 years. Of the counties served, 90% have a per capita income of less than $25,750. Only 10% of the counties served had per capita incomes of more than $25,750. The ten percent was all from Two counties Jefferson and Fayette counties. The per capita income for Fayette county is $28,345.00 and for Jefferson $36,533.00. Of the original 57 participants surveyed, 35 identify as women. Women farmers were 61% of the total participants in this program year. Of the original 57 participants surveyed, 72% (41) identified their ethnicity as Caucasian, 14% (8) identified as African American (an increase of 9% from the previous year), Hispanic, or Latino, 1.7% (1) identified as pacific Islanders and the remaining 12% preferred not to answer. Household income levels surveyed that 60% (34) of participants had a household income above $25,750 and 30% (17) below, $25,750, while 10% (6) preferred not to say their household income levels. Participants not selling farm products during the application period of the program (32) 56%, and those selling made up 37% The average size of the production area at the time of the survey included: 26% (15) had production areas of 2000 square feet to 1 acre, 25% (14) utilized less than 2000 square feet, 12% (7) had no production area, 12% had more than 4 acres in production, 9% had between 1-2 acres (5) in production, and 7% (4)had between 2-4 acres in production. Changes/Problems:No major changes or problems. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Supplemental Program: "Supplemental funding will support the costs associated with beginning farmers and staff members pursuing professional development opportunities, including conferences, training opportunities, field days, and other approved continuing education events" Grow Appalachia provided professional Development scholarships to 135+ Beginning Farmers in KY. This included 57 scholarships to the Organic Association of Kentucky, 21 Scholarships to the Eastern Kentucky Farmers Conference, 57 Scholarships to the Peoples Summit "Weaving the Food Web", and 30 scholarships to the Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference. Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference The Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference is relatively new. The conference is committed to bringing black farmers from across Kentucky together to develop peer networks and learn of the successes and challenges black farmers face every day. The conference has included farmers, legislators, educators, cooperative members, and supporting partners. OAK conference: The Organic Association of Kentucky's annual farming conference, now in its 12th year, includes a growing audience of hundreds of Kentuckians and neighbors active in our community food systems: farmers, researchers, nonprofit professionals, federal and state agency partners, allied service providers and conscious consumers working collectively to build a local, resilient and healthy food system. OAK is was proud to host #OAK2023 at Kentucky State University (KSU)'s Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm in Frankfort, Kentucky. The synergy of diverse voices, messages, and approaches combined with the place-based connection to our Kentucky farms, soil, and communitiesprovided a rich foundation for conversation and growth. The primary focus of OAK Conference programming is to highlight is was[CM1] on farm production systems, techniques, and practices - and yet the interwoven threads of community, conservation, and conscious choice-making are inseparable from the sustainable agriculture movement. East Kentucky Farmer Conference The East Kentucky Farmer Conference brings farmers together from across the Eastern Ky communities in central Appalachia. Technical Service Providers, farmers, and support organizations come together to share educational sessions that cover a wide variety of content that addresses the many areas of a farm family's experience. This is also an opportunity for farmers to connect with farmers and discuss the successes and challenges of farming life. Kentucky Local Foods Summit Grow Appalachia staff were provided scholarships to participate in the Kentucky Local Food Summit. The summit provided educational sessions that support Technical Service Providers and food security organizations. This event includes peer-to-peer learning opportunities and networking events. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Grow Appalachia disseminates program activities through three primary avenues 1. Annual report : Each year Grow Appalachia develops an end-of-year report that details the activities associated with the Grow Appalachia program. In the 2023annual report, we will share the accomplishments and appropriate data for the Beginning Farmer Development Program. These annual reports will be disseminated to our funders, appropriate Berea College administrative committee members, a network of non-profit partners, and the general public. 2. Website: Grow Appalachia maintains a website that is housed as part of the more extensive Berea College network. Information on the website details the programs and associated activities for the projects Grow Appalachia delivers. Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Educational Series page where interested individuals can learn more about the program and its impact on the region of focus, Central Appalachia. The Beginning Farmer page is also the location for interested farmers to apply for the program at the start of each fiscal year. The information and data on the website are updated regularly. 3. Social Media: Grow Appalachia maintains a large following on many social media platforms. These include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others. This is where interested individuals can see the most active and live data for the programs we deliver. We use these platforms to educate, invite, and inform the community on how and when to participate in our programs. This is likely the most efficient and broad-reaching tool for disseminating information about Grow Appalachia's programs in general, What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The remainder of the program is through February 28th 2024. There will be no additional activities outside of administration and reporting as specified by USDA NIFA.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Supplemental Program: "Beginning farmers will be awarded a stipend for purchasing tools and supplies that will increase efficiency and resiliency on the farm". Producers received tools, supplies, and nutrient management components throughout year 4 of the Beginning Farmer Series. Farms across Eastern Kentucky were provided access to compost for the fertility of their farms. Grow Appalachia was able to provide 300 cubic yards of compost to foster an increase in organic matter content in the soil. This added fertility increased production volume, quality of harvest, and health and vigor of plants. Farmers received continuing education resources that included books, publications, and access to online farming resources. The types of publications that are provided include Silvopasture, The small poultry flock, Holistic Orchard Care, The Lean Farm, Greenhouse hoop house growers handbook, Living spoil handbook, Farming the Woods, Fiber Shed, Winter Harvest Handbook, Happy Pigs Taste Better, Worm Farmer's Handbook, Market Farming Success, Crop Rotations and Cover Crops, Farming While Black, and The Organic Seed Grower. These books will continue to be a resource beyond the scope of the Beginning Farmer Series. The stipends provided additional resources to farms in products that could be implemented immediately. Many farmers chose to select seeds from reputable suppliers for their coming planting season. The types of seeds order include cover crop seeds, vegetable seeds, and flower seeds. All types of seed provide benefits to the farm either through expanded markets or increased soil health. Additionally, Farmers received physical resources such as Specialized hand tools (scuffle, oscillating, colinear, chop hoes), Hori Hori Gardening knives, wheel hoes, irrigation supplies, and other similar supplies needed for efficient production of crops. Grow Appalachia, utilizing supplemental funding, secured shared-use equipment. The shared-use equipment will be managed by local and regional partners who will make the shared-use equipment available to farmers in their communities. Grow Appalachia invested in small equipment trailers to help folks transport shared-use equipment to their farms, in a safe manner. Honey extractors have been purchased and are available through partners in the region. Honey extractors are comparatively expensive equipment for a small beekeeper to invest in. So, through the shared-use program, farmers can borrow the equipment and gain experience in using it efficiently and may find the need to purchase their equipment based on their experience with the shared-use equipment. Wheel hoes are non-motorized equipment that assist in the cultivation and weed management in the field. The wheel hoes are available to farms to test the efficacy of the farmer's unique production practices. When used properly and at the correct time this equipment can replace hoes and tillers for managing pathways and weed control in the field.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:In year 3of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Education Series, the project served historically underserved, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers. Of the counties served, 90% have a per capita income of less than $25,750. Only 10% of the counties served had per capita incomes of more than $25,750. The ten percent was all from Two counties Jefferson and Fayette counties. The per capita income for Fayette county is $28,345.00 and for Jefferson $36,533.00. This project year served a majority of women-managed farms and farm start-ups. Of the original 57participants surveyed, 35 identify as women. Women farmers were 61% of the total participants in this program year. Of the original 57 participants surveyed, 72% (41) identified their ethnicity as Caucasian, 14% (8) identifiedas African American (an increase of 9% fromthe previous year), Hispanic, or Latino, 1.7% (1) identified as pacific Islanders and the remaining 12% preferred not to answer. Household income levels surveyed that 60% (34) of participants had a household income above $25,750 and 30% (17) below,$25,750, while 10% (6) preferred not to say their household income levels. Participants not selling farm products during the application period of the program (32) 56%, and those selling made up 37% The average size of the production area at the time of the survey included: 26% (15) had production areas of 2000 square feet to 1 acre, 25% (14) utilized less than 2000 square feet, 12% (7) had no production area, 12% had more than 4 acres in production, 9% had between 1-2 acres (5) in production, and 7% (4)had between 2-4 acres in production. Changes/Problems:The Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer series overall for the third year of the project experienced some declines inparticipation by members of the cohort. The major reason noted was the fluid nature of folk's schedules and responsibilities. Grow Appalachia has addressed this in the award of a new 2022 Beginning Farmer grant by making some of the educational sessions self-paced so beginning farmers have flexibility when they are required to attend class. This new model has components of a hybrid learning environment. Participants will have self-paced sections to complete on their own, live virtual meetings to dig into topics as a group, and quarterly in-person sessions for the huge value associated with networking with other beginning farmers and resource agencies. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Grow Appalachia was able to support more than 187 Beginning Farmers attending 5 regional sustainable agriculture conferences, by way of the generous support of the USDA NIFA BFRDG and Pandemic supporting funds. Virginia Biological Conference - Grow Appalachia's Beginning Farmer Program supported 30 Beginning Farmer attendees, with 50% being farmers who identify as BIPOC farmers. Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Conference -Grow Appalachia's Beginning Farmer Program supported 26Beginning Farmer attendees, with 11 conference sessions catered to the Beginning Farmer experience level. Kentucky Black Farmer's Conference - Supported attendance fees and travel stipends for Kentucky Black Farmers interested in attending the event. Organic Association of Kentucky Conference -Grow Appalachia's Beginning Farmer Program supported 81 Beginning Farmer attendees. East Kentucky Farmer Conference -Grow Appalachia's Beginning Farmer Program supported 50Beginning Farmer attendees. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Grow Appalachia disseminates program activities through three primary avenues Annual report Each year Grow Appalachia develops an end-of-year report that details the activities associated with the Grow Appalachia program. In the 2022annual report, we will share the accomplishments and appropriate data for the Beginning Farmer Development Program. These annual reports will be disseminated to our funders, appropriate Berea College administrative committee members, a network of non-profit partners, and the general public. Website 1. Grow Appalachia maintains a website that is housed as part of the more extensive Berea College network. Information on the website details the programs and associated activities for the projects Grow Appalachia delivers. There is a specific page for the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Educational Series where interested individuals can learn more about the program and its impact on the region of focus, Central Appalachia. The Beginning Farmer page is also the location for interested farmers to apply for the program at the start of each fiscal year. The information and data on the website are updated regularly. Social Media Grow Appalachia maintains a large following on many social media platforms. These include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others. This is where interested individuals can see the most active and live data for the programs we deliver. We use these platforms to educate, invite, and inform the community on how and when to participate in our programs. This is likely the most efficient and broad-reaching tool for disseminating information about Grow Appalachia's programs in general, also utilizing these platforms specifically for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program activities What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The fourth (possiblebecause of the Pandemic supplemental funding) and final year of this Beginning Farmer Series will focus on professional development opportunities and targeted on-farm experiential learning.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
In year 3of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Development Program, we have continued to make great strides in meeting the stated goals and objectives. Grow Appalachia received 139 applications for the thirdsession of the BFRDG project. Of those 139 applications, we selected 57participants for the program. In year 3, the Beginning Farmer cohort began meeting in February of 2022. Grow Appalachia held classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays of the first two weeks of the month. Four class sessions total per month. Due to COVID infection and transmission rates for the region served in this program, we decided virtual classes would be the safest delivery route. Starting the year virtually, attendance was very positive, but as the year went on we saw participants drop out for a number of reasons including participants who experienced personal illness, natural disasters, priority changes, and schedule changes with employers.The class program period was extended from February to August of 2022. The BFES program delivered 28 virtual class sessions. The class topics included how to develop, plan, and implement a specialty crop production calendar. Adhering to the production calendar can increase volumes and grow efficiencies necessary for a viable farming operation. Participants learned the different outlets for specialty crops in our region and discussed each business model's application and continued management considerations. These models included Community Supported Agriculture models, Farmer's Market and on-farm sales, and wholesale or institutional market considerations. Many participants are interested in developing a hybrid CSA model as a new business tactic for their farms. Participants learned how to create an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan for their specific operations. Adopting an IPM system increases marketable yields, identifies pests, and helps producers develop a calendar of expected challenges. This calendar provides the producer with a tool to be prepared for the next challenge before it is present in their production system. Three open webinars provided access to beginning farmer educational material to a much wider audience. At each webinar,80-100 individuals registered to participate. Of the registrants, 60% attended the live webinars, and the remaining 40% were expected to view the recorded webinar. The recorded webinar format for workshops reaches both those individuals available to participate in the live event and those who need to view the webinar later due to other responsibilities Training Curriculum 57 farmers participated in the thirdyear of the project Of 30 respondents to a post-survey of the program 100% said they improved their knowledge on planning and managing production systems on the farm 75% developed a new business tactic or farm enterprise for the farm 90% improved growing or management practices over the last year 76% began using a new production technique . The thirdyear of Grow Appalachia's intern program went very well. We had a great group of mentors who kept the mentees engaged in the work and experience. Kayla Preston visited mentor farms during the onboarding of new mentees. Being present during these initial interactions between mentees and their mentors was beneficial to participants understanding Grow Appalachia is an advocate for both parties Recruited 9interns who worked with 4 Mentor Farms 9 Interns received hands-on farm experience 9 Interns learned the labor and time demands of managing a small farm 8 Interns completed the program 100% say they will implement new production practices they learned while interning with the program In Year 3 of the program, the on-farm technical support was moved to Red Bird Mission in Clay County Kentucky.Our partner in Clay County worked with local Beginning Farmers, assisting them in production practices, accessing markets for the first time in most instances, and providing a level of support only experienced in a mentor-mentee relationship. 12 farms participated in the thirdyear of the on-farm technical support experience as part of the Grow Appalachia BFRDG 12 farms received soil tests and specific recommendations for their farm nutrient management accordingly Participants increased production capacity, sales, and an understanding of the practice of farming for income. Historically the practice of selling vegetables was taboo within the community. Our partner Michelle Collett is well respected in that community and was able to support farmers in a way that brought a new concept to fruition. Farmers trusted Michelle and in turn those farms were excited to be part of the local market. Increasing peer support networks for beginning farmers: 187 Beginning Farmers attended professional development opportunities with agencies and more experienced farmers from the region. In year 4 Beginning farmer participants will participate in a Beginning Farmer Conference in Berea KY where they will have the opportunity to connect with other beginning farmers while learning different production formatys, enterprises, and access to agency resources in KY.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:In year 2 of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Education Series, the project served historically underserved, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers. Of the counties served, 90% have a per capita income of less than $25,750. Only 10% of the counties served had per capita incomes of more than $25,750. The ten percent was all from one county (Fayette). The per capita income for Fayette county is $28,345, so not significantly higher than the $25,750 measure. This project year served a majority of women-managed farms and farm start-ups. Of the original 42 participants surveyed, 26 are women. Women farmers were 62% of the total participants in this program year. Of the original 42 participants surveyed, 83% identified their ethnicity as Caucasian, 5% identified as African American, Hispanic, or Latino, and the remaining 12% preferred not to answer. Household income levels surveyed that 45% of participants had a household income above $25,750 and 29% below $25,750, while 14% preferred not to say their household income levels. The participants selling farm products at the time of the survey made up 57% of the cohort. Of those selling products, 60% have been selling for two years or less, 33% have been selling between 3 and 6 years, and 7% have been selling for 6-10 years. The annual gross farm sales for this group: 20% sold less than $1000 per year, 27% sold between $1000-$5000, and 53% sold more than $5000. The average size of the production area at the time of the survey included: 48% had production areas of 2000 square feet to 1 acre, 7% utilized less than 2000 square feet, 11% had no production area, 10% had more than 4 acres in production, 14% had between 1-2 acres in production, and 10% had between 2-4 acres in production. Changes/Problems:The biggest change will be the expansion of funding for our current BFRDG agreement to include the "Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Coronavirus Response Supplemental Funding." The Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Educational Series Supplemental Funding Expansion will provide educational opportunities and critical production supplies for 40 eastern Kentucky beginning farmers who were drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funding will support experiential training, whole-farm planning, production supplies, strengthened peer networks, and expanded resource opportunities for beginning farmer participants. The funding expansion will increase the viability of socially disadvantaged (45% of participants) and limited resource (90% of participants) beginning farmers in Kentucky. Proposed supplemental funding will train, equip, and support the sustainability of 40 new and beginning farmers as they recover and retool from the pandemic period. The supplemental funding will support the expansion of Grow Appalachia's current Beginning Farmer Education Series by distributing critical resources and education for farmers as they find ways to pivot after the COVID-19 pandemic shifted their markets and supply chains. One hundred percent of the federal funds are allocated to NGOs, 45% to socially disadvantaged farmers, and 90% to limited-resource farmers. Focus areas for the expanded funding include: Professional Development: Grow Appalachia has worked with farmers for more than a decade. In that time, staff members have seen how challenging it is for regional farmers to access professional development opportunities. The cost of registration and travel prohibits participation for many beginning farmers, and the COVID-19 pandemic created additional barriers to intensive learning opportunities. Grow Appalachia will financially support farmers attending agriculture conferences. Production Supplies & Inputs: Critical infrastructure on a farm can make or break a farmer's ability to adapt to changing markets and weather. When the COVID-19 pandemic first impacted the nation's food supply chains, farmers were scrambling to scale up and adjust their production systems to meet the demand. In Grow Appalachia's service area, beginning farmers saw increased demand for their farm products. They struggled to pivot to online markets, scale up effectively to meet demand and set long-term strategic goals for their farm operations. Supplemental funds will allow Grow Appalachia to create a stiped for supplies and equipment for participating beginning farmers to assist in offsetting losses and startup barriers associated with the challenges of the pandemic. Shared-Use Equipment: Since 2014, Grow Appalachia has invested in commercial, shared-use kitchens for growers to create value-added products. Grow Appalachia has helped create acluster of 5 commercial kitchens that have been invaluable, especially during the COVID-19pandemic. One kitchen served more than 800,000 meals during the pandemic, and anotherhelped serve as a hub for preserving food during a flood. Investing in shared-use equipment to help farmers prepare value-added, shelf-stable products is critical when addressing year-round income with farmers. Many beginning farmers in Grow's network have begun adding beeproduction as a niche market opportunity, but apiary start-ups are expensive and do not leaveroom for harvest equipment. In support of the expanding bee and honey production, funds will be allocated to shared-use equipment in 20 locations to help beginning farmers process honey, expand colony production, and sell value-added products. A budget of $520 allocated per site for20 sites over the supplemental funding period. Training and Field Days: Grow Appalachia pivoted its Beginning Farmer Educational Series at the height of the pandemic to support virtual content that is both high quality and accessible post-event for those whose broadband access does not support live streaming. These virtual workshops have allowed staff to collaborate with a broader group of farmers than initially planned. The training opportunities are designed to help new, and beginning farmers create and sustain their transition into farming. Supplemental funds will support educational opportunities hosted by Grow Appalachia focused on topics designed to improve production practices and build out the resiliency of beginning farmers to sustain income during fluctuating markets and weather. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Mark Walden Associated Director of Production Programming - attended the Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Program in partnership with Cornell University. The Online PSA Grower Training Course is now available.The online experience is not the same as the in-person experience, so it is important that anyone considering this course be aware of how they differ. This page describes the online course experience so potential participants can make an informed decision. The Online PSA Grower Training course is the same curriculum as thein-person trainingthat the FDA accepted as meeting the requirements of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule § 112.22(c) that requires 'At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.' The online course uses a PDF of the PSA Grower Training Manual as a resource, or participants may opt to order a printed copy. Successful completion of the online course results in participants receiving a certificate of completion from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) and the PSA. Candace Mullins - Associate Director of Grow Appalachia - Attended the 2021 Organic Association of Kentucky Virtual Conference. Conference sessions cover various production topics, regenerative organic agriculture, livestock management, marketing, systems thinking, and food systems change-making. Join us to hear from experienced farmers and national speakers in sessions and keynotes - and join in the conversation via Q&A and Farmer Roundtables. A Virtual Trade Show allows farmers to connect with the best technology, input suppliers, financial institutions, and educational resources. The Whova virtual platform offers networking and easy-to-use online interaction. Kayla Preston - Social Enterprise Director for Grow Appalachia - Attended the 2021 Organic Association of Kentucky Virtual Conference. Conference sessions cover various production topics, regenerative organic agriculture, livestock management, marketing, systems thinking, and food systems change-making. Join us to hear from experienced farmers and national speakers in sessions and keynotes - and join in the conversation via Q&A and Farmer Roundtables. A Virtual Trade Show allows farmers to connect with the best technology, input suppliers, financial institutions, and educational resources. Elora Overbey - Program Associate for Grow Appalachia - Attended the 2021 Organic Association of Kentucky Virtual Conference. Conference sessions cover various production topics, regenerative organic agriculture, livestock management, marketing, systems thinking, and food systems change-making. Join us to hear from experienced farmers and national speakers in sessions and keynotes - and join in the conversation via Q&A and Farmer Roundtables. A Virtual Trade Show allows farmers to connect with the best technology, input suppliers, financial institutions, and educational resources. Mark Walden Associated Director of Production Programming - Attended the 2021 Organic Association of Kentucky Virtual Conference. Conference sessions cover various production topics, regenerative organic agriculture, livestock management, marketing, systems thinking, and food systems change-making. Join us to hear from experienced farmers and national speakers in sessions and keynotes - and join in the conversation via Q&A and Farmer Roundtables. A Virtual Trade Show allows farmers to connect with the best technology, input suppliers, financial institutions, and educational resources. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Grow Appalachia disseminates program activities through three primary avenues 1. Annual report 1. Each year Grow Appalachia develops an end-of-year report that details the activities associated with the Grow Appalachia program. In the 2021 annual report, we will share the accomplishments and appropriate data for the Beginning Farmer Development Program. These annual reports will be disseminated to our funders, appropriate Berea College administrative committee members, a network of non-profit partners, and to those interested in the public realm. 2. Website 1. Grow Appalachia maintains a website that is housed as part of the more extensive Berea College network. Information on the website details the programs and associated activities for the projects Grow Appalachia delivers. There is a specific page for the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Educational Series where interested individuals can learn more about the program and its impact on the region of focus, Central Appalachia. The Beginning Farmer page is also the location for interested farmers to apply for the program at the start of each fiscal year. The information and data on the website are updated regularly. 3. Social Media 1. Grow Appalachia maintains a large following on many social media platforms. These include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others. This is where interested individuals can see the most active and live data for the programs we deliver. We use these platforms to educate, invite, and inform the community on how and when to participate in our programs. This is likely the most efficient and broad-reaching tool for disseminating information about Grow Appalachia's programs in general, also utilizing these platforms specifically for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program activities. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The plan for activities for the third reporting period for the Beginning Farmer Education series with Grow Appalachia will be delivered in much of the same way as the post-pandemic restructuring. Grow Appalachia plans to provide the Beginning Farmer classes virtual starting in January 2022. At the time of this report, we have received 116 applications for participation in the following program year. Our target for this coming program participation for classroom sessions (virtual) is 40 individual farms (farmers). So, we are on track to hit our goal. The field days and workshops are planned to be delivered virtually. We are continuing our partnerships with other Ag support professionals to expand the breadth of knowledge available to our participants. Grow Appalachia will be expanding the educational library with new content over the next reporting period. We will continue to connect participants with USDA resource offices in the region and provide guidance on trustworthy farm activity and infrastructure loans. Grow Appalachia received expanded Pandemic Relief funding to equip farmers in the region with on-farm resources. These resources include items that will help farm operations to transition into the new post-pandemic marketplace. Grow Appalachia will purchase items depending on each farms needs and resources available. For some farms, this means fencing, or drip irrigation, or a specific tractor attachment to develop efficiencies on the farm. Finally, we will be placing interns on four farms based in the region specified in the program proposal. Grow Appalachia and Berea College will deliver on commitments made for the Beginning Farmer Development Program.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Goal 1:Increase the income and efficiencies of beginning farmers in eastern Kentucky and eastern Tennessee through experiential training and whole-farm planning curriculum. Objective 1.1: Provide an eight-month training and curriculum program in whole-farm planning and production practices for 120 beginning farmers. In year 2 of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Development Program, we have made great strides in meeting the stated goals and objectives. Grow Appalachia received 50 applications for the second session of the BFRDG project. Of those 50 applications, we selected 42 participants for the program. In year two, the Beginning Farmer cohort began meeting in January of 2021. Grow Appalachia held classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays of the first two weeks of the month. Four class sessions total per month. Due to COVID infection and transmission rates for the region served in this program, we decided virtual classes would be the safest delivery route. Virtual classes were well attended. 95% of initial applicants remained engaged throughout the program year. The class program period extended from January to June 2021. The BFES program delivered 24 virtual class sessions. The class topics included how to develop, plan, and implement a specialty crop production calendar. Adhering to the production calendar can increase volumes and grow efficiencies necessary for a viable farming operation. Participants learned the different outlets for specialty crops in our region and discussed each business model's application and continued management considerations. These models included Community Supported Agriculture models, Farmers Market and on-farm sales, and wholesale or institutional market considerations. Many participants are interested in developing a hybrid CSA model as a new business tactic for their farms. Participants learned how to create an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan for their specific operations. Adopting an IPM system increases marketable yields, identifies pests, and helps producers develop a calendar of expected challenges. This calendar provides the producer with a tool to be prepared for the next challenge before it is present in their production system. Three open webinars provided access to beginning farmer educational material to a much wider audience. At each webinar, 80-100 individuals registered to participate. Of the registrants, 60% attended the live webinar, and the remaining 40% were expected to view the recorded webinar. The recorded webinar format for workshops reaches both those individuals available to participate in the live event and those who need to view the webinar later due to other responsibilities. Goal 1: Increase the income and efficiencies of beginning farmers in eastern Kentucky and eastern Tennessee through experiential training and whole-farm planning curriculum Objective 1.1: Provide an eight-month training and curriculum program in whole-farm planning and production practices for 120 beginning farmers. • 42 farmers participated in the second year of the project • Of 30 respondents to a post-survey of the program • 100% said they improved their knowledge on planning and managing production systems on the farm • 75% developed a new business tactic or farm enterprise for the farm • 90% improved growing or management practices over the last year • 76% began using a new production technique Objective 1.2: Oversee an internship program for 36 beginning farmers to experience hands-on model farm operation. The second year of Grow Appalachia's intern program went very well. We had a great group of mentors who kept the mentees engaged in the work and experience. Kayla Preston visited mentor farms during the onboarding of new mentees. Being present during these initial interactions between mentees and their mentors was beneficial to participants understanding Grow Appalachia is an advocate for both parties. • Recruited 7 interns • 7 Interns received hands on farm experience • 7 Interns learned the labor and time demands of managing a small farm • 7 Interns completed the program • 100% say they will implement new production practices they learned while interning with the program Objective 1.3: Provide direct technical assistance and production planning support to 36 beginning farmers in eastern Tennessee. • 12 farms participated in the second year of the on-farm technical support experience as part of the Grow Appalachia BFRDG • 12 farms received soil test and specific recommendations for their farm nutrient management accordingly 12 of 12 participants responded to our survey by the date of this reporting period • Of respondents 100% will adopt new production practices as a result of working with the BFRDG project • 67% increased their harvest volume in 2020 • 58% increased sales in 2020 • Percentage of increase fluctuated between 5% and 35% increase in sales - a majority saw 25% increase in sales
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Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:Target audience The first year of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Project served the central Appalachian region. It is clear from the demographic information below that this year 1 project served historically underserved, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers. Many of the producers and the counties served are limited in local opportunities for continuing education and professional development related starting, managing and succeeding at a farm enterprise. Of the counties served 90% have per capita income of less than $25,750. Only 10% of the counties served had per capita incomes of more than $25,750. The ten percent was all from one county (Fayette). The per capita income for Fayette county is $28,345 so not significantly higher than the $25,750 measure. This project year served a majority of women managed farms and farm start-ups. Of the original 51 participants surveyed 40 are women. This makes up 78% of the total participants in this program year. Of the original 51 participants surveyed 90% identified their ethnicity as Caucasian and the remaining 10% were identified as African American, Hispanic or Latino, and different or a combination from the selections available in the survey. Household income levels surveyed that 55% of participants had a household income above $25,750 and 31% below $25,750, while 14% preferred not to say their household income levels. The participants that were selling farm products at the time of the survey made up 57% of the cohort. Of those selling products 69% had been selling for 2 years or less, 24% have been selling between 3 and 6 years and 7% have been selling for 6-10 years. The annual gross farm sales for this group: 33% sold less than $1000 per year, 41% sold between $1000-$5000 and 26% sold more than $5000. The average size of the production area at the time of the survey included: 37% had production areas of 2000 square feet to 1 acre, 24% utilized less than 2000 square feet, 16% had no production area, 14% had more than 4 acres in production, 6% had between 1-2 acres in production, and 4% had between 2-4 acres in production. Changes/Problems:The major change or challenge that we ran into was likely the same as all projects across the USA and the world for that matter. COVID 19 appearing in early 2020 and its movement through the country. In March Berea College took an aggressive position on the safety of it's Faculty, staff, students, and the community that interacts with the college. The college sent most students, faculty and staff home to work for an indefinite length of time, limited contact between all, and restricted any travel. This action halted all public interactions with community programs housed at Berea College. This included the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Education Series. Grow Appalachia had completed it's March in person classes at the time of the closure. Starting in April of 2020 the Beginning Farmer Education Series went virtual. This change in venue changed how material was presented and how the project manager interacted with the participants in the program. There were some challenges making sure everyone would be able to connect virtually but the resilience of the cohort made it work as well as they/we could. A minority of the group disengaged do to the virtual classes. These were personal decisions and not for the lack of an electronic device to connect to the virtual format. Additionally, the field days planned for educational and networking for the group were adjusted to become virtual events. This may have been an opportunity to create a larger impact. The virtual field days are now available to anyone with an internet connection on the Grow Appalachia You Tube channel. Going into year 2 we have decided to plan for an all virtual delivery of the program while still holding out hope that a vaccine will be available sometime within year 2 to reignite an opportunity to meet with participants in person. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Our Associate Director, Candace Mullins, attended the National Good Food Network Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana in late Winter of 2020. At this conference she learned from other rural and urban leaders focusing on food, primarily attending workshops and sessions that centered the food discussions around race. She went on a field trip to an urban farm in NOLA called 'Grow Dat Youth Farm'. Here she learned about their social enterprise, which works to provide opportunities for youth to develop leadership skills and initiate change in their communities, while growing food and selling produce within New Orleans. Candace's experiences at the conference have helped shape some of the mentorship opportunities in the Beginning Farmer Program and will continue to provide insight into the way we address equity within Grow Appalachia's programs and services. Grow Appalachia's Project Manager for the Beginning Farmer Series Mark Walden attended the Carolina Farm Stewardship conference in North Carolina. Mark was able to attend classes on Organic certification for small farms, seed contracting for small farms, and many other relevant classes that would benefit developing farmers. The seed contracting session with speakers representing many seed buyers from the eastern seaboard was intriguing and opened another avenue for small farm niche production and income. This session prompted Mark to revisit the class curriculum and look at farm revenue through some additional filters that are outside of the standard specialty crop/vegetable markets. The professional development opportunity provided by the Beginning Farmer Education Series also allowed a member of the Grow Appalachia technical staff to attend a 5-day conference focusing on agricultural irrigation and water management. Classes included an intensive introduction to hydraulic engineering, soil profiles and water permeation, and rain water harvesting and catchment. Throughout the Beginning Farmer program year Grow Appalachia has been able to share the skills and knowledge gained during the conference with program participants and mentees/ mentors by creating and sharing instructive videos on proper irrigation considerations and installation as well as provide technical assistance to participating beginning farmers. The professional development opportunity provided by the Beginning Farmer Program has allowed Grow Appalachia's staff to expand and reinforce the knowledge we share with new and Beginning farmers in the central Appalachian region. The population Grow Appalachia serves are marginalized by geographic location, household income and information awareness. Bringing new and resourceful ideas from professional development opportunities provided by the beginning farmer program allows for earlier adoption of unique techniques that may positively impact the farmers bottom line. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Grow Appalachia disseminates program activities through three primary avenues Annual report Each year Grow Appalachia develops an end of year report that details the activities associated with the Grow Appalachia program. In the 2020 annual report we will share the accomplishments and appropriate data for the Beginning Farmer Development Program. These annual reports will be disseminated to our funders, appropriate Berea College Administrative committee members, a network of non-profit partners, and to those interested in the public realm. Website Grow Appalachia maintains a website that is housed as part of the larger Berea College network. Information on the website details the programs and associated activities for the projects Grow Appalachia delivers. There is a specific page for the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Educational Series where interested individuals can spend time learning more about the program and its impact on the region of focus, Central Appalachia. The Beginning Farmer page is also the location for interested farmers to apply for the program at the start of each fiscal year. The information and data on the website is updated regularly. Social Media Grow Appalachia maintains a large following on many social media platforms. These include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others. This is where interested individuals can see the most active and live data for the programs we deliver. We use these platforms to educate, invite, and inform the community on how and when to participate in our programs. This is likely the most efficient and broad reaching tool for disseminating information about Grow Appalachia's programs in general, also utilizing these platforms specifically for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program activities. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The plan for activities for the second reporting period for the Beginning Farmer Education series with Grow Appalachia will be delivered in much of the same way as the post pandemic restructuring. Grow Appalachia plans to deliver the Beginning Farmer classes virtual starting in January 2021. At the time of this report we have received 34 applications for participation in the next program year. Our target for this coming program participation for classroom sessions (virtual) is 40 individual farms (farmers). So, we are on tract to hit our goal. The field days and workshops are being planned to be delivered virtually. We are continuing our partnerships with other Ag support professionals to expand the breadth of knowledge that will be available to our participants. Grow Appalachia will be expanding the educational library with new content that will be produced over the next reporting period. We will continue to connect participants with USDA resource offices in the region and will provide guidance on trustworthy farm activity and infrastructure loans. In partnership with the Organic Association of Kentucky we will also have the opportunity to send all current year participants to the OAK annual conference (being held virtually). Finally, we will be placing interns on four farms based in the region specified in the program proposal. Grow Appalachia and Berea College will deliver on commitments made for the Beginning Farmer Development Program.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
In year 1 of the Grow Appalachia Beginning Farmer Development Program we have made great strides in meeting the stated goals and objectives. Grow Appalachia received 93 applications for the first session of the BFRDG project. Of those 93 applications we selected 43 participants for the program. The first class started in January of 2020. From January to mid-March we delivered 12 in-person classes In mid-March we learned that in-person classes will have to stop due to the pandemic's infection rates in the U.S. In the face of COVID concerns as well as state and institutional best practices, the delivery of the program evolved into a virtual classroom. We had a brief pause when quarantine began from mid-March to mid-April to regroup and get ready to deliver the Beginning Farmer curriculum in a virtual format. We developed videos that included on-farm demonstrations and best practices. We delivered classes in a ZOOM classroom and made room for weekly educational and networking sessions we coined as "Tea Time with Mark and Kayla". These weekly sessions kept our cohort engaged and helped them feel supported during what was and is a unique experience for all. These Tea Time sessions allowed room for farmers to talk to farmers while also receiving the technical support to problems that arose during discussions. These modifications helped us work toward the stated goals and objectives of this BFRDG project. Goal 1: Increase the income and efficiencies of beginning farmers in eastern Kentucky and eastern Tennessee through experiential training and whole-farm planning curriculum Objective 1.1: Provide an eight-month training and curriculum program in whole-farm planning and production practices for 120 beginning farmers. 43 farmers participated in the first year of the project Of 30 respondents to a post survey of the program 100% said they improved their knowledge on planning and managing production systems on the farm 75% developed a new business tactic or farm enterprise for the farm 90% improved growing or management practices over the last year 76% began using a new production technique Objective 1.2: Oversee an internship program for 36 beginning farmers to experience hands-on model farm operation. The first year of Grow Appalachia's intern program was rolled out during the challenging period of the pandemics first major impact on US populations. As part of Berea College there were some delays in decisions on what type of interactions would be allowed by campus employees, students, and off campus individuals. Fortunately, Grow Appalachia was allowed to move forward with the intern program in 2020 and we were able to place 9 interns with host farm mentors. Overall, with obvious challenges we feel the inaugural year of internships went well. We ended the internship period with 7 interns completing the planned commitment. We lost two interns over the period -one to communication challenges and one to an unrelated injury. Recruited 9 interns 9 Interns received hands on farm experience 9 Interns learned the labor and time demands of managing a small farm 7 Interns completed the program 57% say they will implement new production practices they learned while interning with the program Objective 1.3: Provide direct technical assistance and production planning support to 36 beginning farmers in eastern Tennessee. 12 farms participated in the first year of the on-farm technical support experience as part of the Grow Appalachia BFRDG 12 farms received soil test and specific recommendations for their farm nutrient management accordingly 7 of 12 participants responded to our survey by the date of this reporting period Of respondents 100% will adopt new production practices as a result of working with the BFRDG project 70% increased their harvest volume in 2020 70% increased sales in 2020 Percentage of increase fluctuated between 5% and 35% increase in sales - a majority saw 25% increase in sales Goal 2: Increase the peer networks and resource opportunities for beginning farmers in eastern Kentucky. Objective 2.1: Facilitate six peer-to-peer field days and six peer networking sessions for 180 beginning farmers to be exposed to a diverse group of successful farmers and farm models. This year has been challenging for all. We planned these "field day" events to be in person but due to the pandemic we shifted to all virtual workshops and field days. We met the challenge by visiting farms and recording video of the practices and techniques local farms are utilizing successfully. All while adhering to state and local guidelines for interactions by social distancing, wearing masks, and by having a limited number of staff present with the farmer. Then we presented the videos in a virtual format. The virtual format also allowed for participant interaction with the farmer or farm professional responding to real time questions. This format worked. We had good attendance by a wide audience of growers, farmers, USDA staff, and agriculture support professionals. I believe the preference for most would be to have the in-person on-farm field days, but the virtual format allowed for exposure to a wider audience which has extended the benefit of the Beginning Farmer Program farther than expected.
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