With more farmers
and ranchers leaving their land; either voluntarily, through retirement, or having no choice due to economic difficulties, it's more important than ever to ensure that those entering the farming and ranching profession are given the support and tools they need to remain in business for the foreseeable future. Since 2009, HMI has offered beginning farmer and rancher classes, and has trained hundreds of beginning women farmers in seven states. Due to increased demand, the program has been opened up to both men and women, and we are hopeful that we can offer this program in several new states, such as California, Oregon, and Oklahoma in 2017. HMI's Beginning Farmer & Rancher program educates and empowers agricultural newcomers (with 10 or less years of farming/ranching experience) to build successful businesses by applying Holistic Management principles and practices. Farmers and ranchers will learn new skills that can be implemented on their own farm or ranch, including soil fertility practices, livestock production, grazing planning, financial planning, marketing and business planning, whole farm/ranch planning skills, leadership and communications skills. By supporting our beginning farmers and ranchers, you are also helping to ensure that fresh, local, nutrient-dense foods remain readily available in communities across the U.S., and that the farming and ranching profession does not become a thing of the past. Please visit our website to learn more about and our Beginning Farmer and Rancher program.