Progress 09/01/23 to 08/31/24
Outputs
Target Audience:Technical assistance and training for the targeted projected population included the ongoing execution of the educational training and technical assistance designed workshops. These outreach support activities continued to be conducted to address the needs of program participants and provide the opportunity for equality and equity building. Throughout this reporting period eight (8) service designed technical assistance training workshop events were conducted and one statewide conference. These outreach events drew the participation of over four hundred sixty (460) targeted program participants, along with added partnership participation from the public and private sector including USDA agency participation. Follow-up client intake for more detailed technical assistance was conducted at the outreach meetings. More than eighteen hundred (1,800) contact hours were provided for client servicing. Program beginning farmer clients participated in the ALCDC 2024 Annual Conference. At the close of the project, participants will have received approximately 4,056 contact hours over three years with project training staff. Changes/Problems:No major changes/problems during this reporting period What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Project Training included the planning and execution of the educational and technical training portion of the project. This was where participants began their journey with ALCDC and were introduced to new or advanced concepts designed to elevate their knowledge of farming and ranching practices. Information was delivered using diverse methodologies including workshops, farm visits, demonstrations, field days, and conferences. A major portion of training occurred in the process of assisting project participants with the preparation of their farm operating loan application. ALCDC staff trained participants that farming is a business which includes risk management (Insurance, finance, production, marketing, and legal/human resources), farm plans, nutrient management, resources conservation, technology insertion, etc. These topics were addressed with each farm operating loan applicant. This exercise concluded with the preparation of farm management plans, unique for each participant. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results of this project have been disseminated to the communities of interest. Recruiting more than 75 participants across the 36-month period of performance was achieved by incorporating this project into all of ALCDC's outreach activities and direct recruiting of participants. This included drafting recruitment materials as articles, press releases, flyers, and handouts published through traditional outlets, social media, direct mail, ALCDC newsletters and e-letters, and direct mail distribution to local rural resident, and other establishments. Over 6,000 newsletters were sent to the target population including ALCDC's database of churches with over 3,000 entries. Press releases were sent to newspapers and radio stations throughout the ALCDC's service area. Project staff published radio announcements, reaching over 50,000 per - quarter of the Arkansans population in its service area. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?This is the final year of the project.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The project emphasized farming as a business by assisting participants develop business plans, risk management plans, conservation stewardship plans, complete EQIP applications, apply for commercial farm loans, receive financial stipends to assist with crop insurance premiums to offset the cost of major risk management expenses, being matched/paired with experienced mentors, and receiving scholarships to attend a variety of professional development conferences related to agriculture.Under the experienced leadership of Dr. Calvin King, the project was executed in an orderly fashion with one exception - COVID - 19. With over four decades of training/technical assistance directly with prioritize African American, socially disadvantaged, and military veteran farmers and ranchers, Dr. King and his team were able to obtain the trust of this group, already untrusting of the government in general, and the USDA more specifically. In order to overcome the COVID - 19 impact, ALCDC resorted to using virtual technology along with its in-person events for many activities normally performed in-person. Project objectives will be met.
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Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/24
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience that was the focus of effort during the duration of the project was military veterans, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers and ranchers. Changes/Problems:One major challenge was the impact of COVID-19. ALCDC resorted to using virtual technology along with its in person events for many activities normally performed in-person. Project objectives were achieved. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Technical assistance and training for the targeted population has embodied the ongoing execution of the educational training and technical assistance designed workshops. Program beginning farmer clients participated in the 2023 Farm Bureau Diversity in AG. Conference and the ALCDC 2022, 2023, and 2024 Annual Conferences. At the close of the project, participants had received approximately 4,056 contact hours over three years with project training staff. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results beingdisseminated to communities of interestincluded preparing recruitment materials as articles, press releases, flyers, and handouts published through traditional outlets, social media, direct mail, ALCDC newsletters and e-letters, and direct mail distribution to local rural resident, and other establishments. Over 6,000 newsletters were sent to the target population including ALCDC's database of churches with over 3,000 entries. Press releases were sent to newspapers and radio stations throughout the ALCDC's service area. Project staff published radio announcements, reaching over 50,000 per - quarter of the Arkansans population in its service area. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
These outcomes include the following key achievements: Development of Business Plans Thirty-six (36) participants have made significant strides in formulating robust business plans and nine(9) were in various stages of developing plans. Business plans were initially a concept that many of our participants had not considered or fully comprehended. Arkansas Land and Community Development Corporation (ALCDC) developed a strategy to encourage participants to focus on and understand the need for business plans (especially in new or changing operations), the purpose for business plans, methods of developing a plan and components of business plans that are custom to individual needs and desires. Participants were given instructions on the various components of a business plan including business description/overview, operations plan, marketing plan, management plan (including risk management) and financial plans. Most participants understood that these plans serve as detailed roadmaps for their agricultural ventures, outlining clear objectives, strategies, and financial projections. These plans may also require continuous updating as changes occur in the business operation and the agriculture industry. The business plans would then be brought to the local USDA service centers for advice and assistance with available farming practices and conservation services suitable for their property and aligns with the business plans. Beginning farmers and ranchers may need to apply for a farm and tract number with the Farm Services Agency (FSA) if needed, before seeking further assistance with farm practices and conservation programs from FSA and Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS). Many of our participants were Heirs' property owners and who could experience additional obstacles in obtaining a farm number from FSA due to a lack of clear or legal title. ALCDC staff updated their popular "Heir Property Manual" in 2022 and provided copies to all participants that owned Heirs' property. The booklet and the "Heirs' Property Training Manual was useful and served as a tool to help protect and resolve Heirs' property issues. Heirs were provided information on the 2018 Farm Bill provisions that recognized the impact of Heirs' property owners' inaccessibility to USDA programs and services. ALCDC staff assisted participants in obtaining farm numbers which enabled them to qualify for FSA and NRCS conservation practices. The assistance provided also led to developing more comprehensive risk management plans that included estate planning and/or succession planning to help qualify for farm loans. We have found that some participants will need further assistance after conservation practice contracts have been awarded to help understand and implement the terms and conditions of the contracts to maintain compliance. Creation of Risk Management Plans In response to the ever-present uncertainties in agriculture due to natural disasters, commodity prices, weather conditions, fuel, seed, feed, fertilizer, chemical costs etc., Forty-one (44) participants meticulously developed risk management plans as standalone plans or as a section in the business plan. These plans were designed to reduce losses and maintain business sustainability by identifying potential risks, assessing their impact, and implementing effective mitigation strategies. There were many strategies to consider from financial risk to climate risk to production risk. Programs such the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) is quite useful to our participants in providing financial assistance for those who are not eligible for catastrophic crop insurance. Formulation of Conservation Stewardship Plans Sixty (60) participants showed a strong commitment to environmental sustainability by creating conservation stewardship plans. These plans emphasize the responsible use of natural resources, promoting practices that enhance soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. Conservation plans are an integral part of risk management and business planning. Conservation planning and implementation helps to create sustainability by protecting land and environment. Completion of EQIP Applications Twenty-nine (29) participants successfully completed applications for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), seeking vital funding to implement conservation practices on their small micro-farms. Many participants were assisted with their applications with several needing to reapply because of no award. Some participants are still hopeful that their applications will be accepted for various EQIP programs. Staff were aware of the possibility of conflicts in accessing these programs by Heirs' property owners and took proactive approaches in addressing these concerns as discussed in the business plan section. Applications for Commercial Farm Loans Twelve (12) participants took initiative steps to secure commercial farm loans. These loans provide essential capital to invest in equipment, infrastructure, and other resources necessary for expanding their agricultural operations. Financial Stipends for Crop Insurance Premiums To alleviate the financial burden of major risk management expenses, stipends were available to assist with crop insurance premiums. This support helps ensure their crops are adequately protected against unforeseen events and are in risk management plans and/or the business plans. However, with most of our farmers being low income, they all qualified to sign up for free NAP insurance coverage. A total of fifty-five (55) crops were insured by twenty-two (22) farmers who took advantage of the program. Mentorship Pairing Recognizing the value of expert guidance, we have matched seventeen (17) participants with experienced mentors. This mentorship provided valuable insights, advice, and support, fostering professional growth and development. Scholarships for Conferences Expenses were covered for Ninety-eight (98) individuals to attend a variety of professional development conferences, including Farm Bureau Diversity in AG., Arkansas Land and Farm Development Corporation Annual Conference and the Winter Farmers Conference. These opportunities enabled them to stay abreast of the latest industry trends, innovations, and best practices, further enhancing their skills and knowledge. Participants were given the opportunity to network with professionals, farmers, business owners, government, and non-government officials to expand their knowledge and education in the agriculture industry and business. However, due to COVID-19 the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) Rural Life Conference was canceled except for 2024. Over the life of the project, ALCDC provided financial support for farmers to attend the Arkansas Land and Farm Development Corporation Annual Conference including the Winter Farmers Conference. In addition, farmers were awarded the opportunity to attend the Farm Bureau Diversity in AG. Annual Conferences. Conclusion These positive outcomes underscore our commitment to empowering participants with the tools and resources they need to succeed. By fostering business training and technical assistance, promoting environmental stewardship, and aiding secure financial support, we are helping to build a resilient and prosperous small farm agricultural community that will be sustainable.
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Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23
Outputs
Target Audience:Technical assistance and training for the targeted projected population has embodied the ongoing execution of the educational training and technical assistance designed workshops. These outreach support activities have continued to be conducted to address the needs of program participants and provide the opportunity for equality and equity building. Throughout this reporting period eight (8) service designed technical assistance training workshop events were conducted and one statewide conference. These outreach events drew the participation of over four hundred sixty (460) targeted program participants, along with added partnership participation from the public and private sector including USDA agency participation. Follow up client intake for more detailed technical assistance was conducted at the outreach meetings. More than eighteen hundred (1,800) contact hours were provided for client servicing. Program beginning farmer clients participated in the 2023 Farm Bureau Diversity in AG. Conference and the ALCDC 2022 and 2023 Annual Conference. Changes/Problems:The major challenges continue to be the impact of COVID-19. ALCDC has continued using virtual technology along with its in person events for many activities normally performed in-person. Project objectives will be met. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has opened doors for more training and professional development. This is where participants begin their 36-month journey with ALCDC and are introduced to new or advanced concepts designed to elevate their knowledge of farming and ranching practices. Information is being delivered using diverse methodologies including workshops, farm visits, demonstrations, field days, and conferences. A major portion of training occurs in the process of assisting project participants with the preparation of their farm operating loan application. ALCDC staff train participants that farming is a business which includes risk management (Finance, production, marketing, and legal/human resources), farm plans, nutrient management, resources conservation, technology insertion, etc. These topics were addressed with each farm operating loan applicant. This exercise concludes with the preparation of farm management plans, unique for each participant. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results have beimplemented with incorporation of the BFRDP project into all of ALCDC's outreach activities and recruiting participants. This phase of the project included draft recruitment materials as articles, press releases, flyers, and handouts published through traditional outlets, social media, direct mail, ALCDC newsletters and e-letters, and direct mail distribution to local rural resident, and other establishments. Over 6,000 newsletters were sent to the target population including ALCDC's database of churches with over 3,000 entries. Press releases were sent to newspapers and radio stations throughout the ALCDC's service area. Project staff published radio announcements, reaching over 50,000 per - quarter of the Arkansans population in its service area What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period, ALCDC will continue with the four objectives of the project. 1) Recruit and retain 75 new and existing beginning farmers and ranchers in a 36-month intensive technical training program; 2) Close the opportunity gap for African American, socially disadvantaged, and veteran farmers and ranchers in rural Arkansas by facilitating access to farming and business resources; 3) Create greater chances for successful business operations through performing individualized participant assessments/evaluations and leveraging regional partnerships to address each participant's specific needs; 4) Foster business partnerships and professional associations with other farmers and ranchers through collaborative learning, networking, and training opportunities. ALCDC will continue these efforts by the continuance of project outreach and project training.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
ALCDC administration has incorporated the project into the general ledger; set up the chart of accounts; assigned project and support staff; allocated and briefed staff, evaluation committee, and board members; and assisted staff in preparing quarterly work plans. Task 2 has been implemented with incorporation of the BFRDP project into all of ALCDC's outreach activities and recruiting participants. This phase encompasses the planning and execution of the educational and technical training portion of the project. This is where participants began their 36-month journey with ALCDC are be introduced to new or advanced concepts designed to elevate their knowledge of farming and ranching practices. Information is being delivered using diverse methodologies including workshops, farm visits, demonstrations, field days, and conferences. Technical reports and noncontractual financial reports for review and submission to project oversight, and funders were prepared as required by ALCDC's project management activities.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience of this project are existing beginning farmers and ranchers, African Americansocially disadvantaged beginning farmers and ranchers, and veteran farmers and ranchers. Changes/Problems:The major challengecontinue to be the impact of COVID-19. ALCDC has continued using virtual technology for many activities normally performed in-person. Project objectives will be met. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Training and professional development encompasses the planning and execution of the educational and technical training portion of the project. This is where participants began their 36-month journey with ALCDC are be introduced to new or advanced concepts designed to elevate their knowledge of farming and ranching practices. Information is being delivered using diverse methodologies including workshops, farm visits, demonstrations, field days, and conferences. A major portion of training occurs in the process of assisting project participants with the preparation of their farm operating loan application. ALCDC staff train participants that farming is a business which includes risk management (Finance, production, marketing, and legal/human resources), farm plans, nutrient management, resources conservation, technology insertion, etc. These topics were addressed with each farm operating loan applicant. This exercise concludes with the preparation of farm management plans, unique for each participant. 1. Dumas, AR - June 2022 2. Memphis, TN - April 2022 3. Lewisville, AR - April 2022 4. Menifee, AR - March 2022 How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?This phase of the project included draft recruitment materials as articles, press releases, flyers, and handouts published through traditional outlets, social media, direct mail, ALCDC newsletters and e-letters, and direct mail distribution to local rural resident, and other establishments. Over 2,000 newsletters were sent to the target population including ALCDC's database of churches with over 1,000 entries. Press releases were sent to newspapers and radio stations throughout the ALCDC's service area. Project staff published radio announcements, reaching over 50,000 of the Arkansans population in its service area. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period, ALCDC will continue with the four objectives of the project.1) Recruit and retain 75 new and existing beginning farmers and ranchers in a 36-month intensive technical training program; 2) Close the opportunity gap for African American, socially disadvantaged, and veteran farmers and ranchers in rural Arkansas by facilitating access to farming and business resources; 3) Create greater chances for successful business operations through performing individualized participant assessments/evaluations and leveraging regional partnerships to address each participant's specific needs; 4) Foster business partnerships and professional associations with other farmers and ranchers through collaborative learning, networking, and training opportunities. ALCDC will contine these efforts by the continuance of project outreach and project training.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
ALCDC administration has incorporated the project into the general ledger; set up the chart of accounts; assigned project and support staff; allocated and briefed staff, evaluation committee, and board members; and assisted staff in preparing quarterly work plans.Task 2 has been implemented with incorporation of the BFRDP project into all of ALCDC's outreach activities and recruiting participants. This phaseencompasses the planning and execution of the educational and technical training portion of the project. This is where participants began their 36-month journey with ALCDC are be introduced to new or advanced concepts designed to elevate their knowledge of farming and ranching practices. Information is being delivered using diverse methodologies including workshops, farm visits, demonstrations, field days, and conferences.Technical reports and non-contractual financial reports for review and submission to project oversight, and funders were prepared as required by ALCDC's project management activities.
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