LISTSERV 16.0 - MICH-ORGANIC Archives

3. "Farm it Forward" Workshop Helps Farm in Transition

Keeping the family farm in business can be a real challenge in today's times, especially when you look past the financials and everyday production and think about keeping it going through the next farming generation.

As the average age of American farmers steadily increases while the number of young and new farmers decreases, farm transition has become a serious issue, but it doesn't have to be a problem. Resources and assistance in developing a plan are out there, and so are a lot of other farmers finding themselves in the same situation.

The "Farm it Forward" workshop was specifically developed to help farm families work through the process of planning a farm business transition. Set up as two sessions, each consisting of two days of training on December 7-8, 2007 and January 11-12, 2008 in Birch, Run, Michigan, this program will give participants the opportunity to work through the process of planning a farm business transition. Whether you are looking to pass the farm to the next generation within the family or to a business partner or you are hoping to have the opportunity to take over the farm from your parents, this program could benefit you, your family and your farm operation.

Communication can be a huge barrier for multi-generational farm families, so you may find that some outside assistance with the process can be of value. Discover some of the common issues involved in a multiple generation farm business and how you can address them to ensure the future and success of your farm. Putting together an informed plan of action can greatly improve the future outcome of the transition process.

A group of resource professionals who work with farm transitions have been recruited to facilitate the "Farm it Forward" workshop and provide a positive environment for building a solid plan of action. During the workshop, participants will focus on the following topics:

* Setting the Guideposts
* Multiple Generation Farm Families: Living and Working Together
* Strategic Business Planning
* Farm Business Planning
* Basic Estate Planning Issues

This program will provide general information necessary to plan the entry of the next generation into existing farm operations. A wealth of resources will be provided, from worksheets to hands-on exercises that will help participants develop their own, individual transition plan information. Participants will also be offered an opportunity for each generation of the family to discuss issues related to their farm's transfer.

Uncover alternatives that have helped others over the years transfer farm assets and resources between generations and ways to limit the impact on cash flows and taxation expenses when possible.

For more information or to register contact Dennis Stein at [log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]> , (989) 672-3870 or by fax at (989) 673-8248. Read more online at http://www.msu.edu/user/steind <http://www.msu.edu/user/steind> .

Emily Buckham
Communications Specialist

Michigan Food & Farming Systems - MIFFS
Bringing Farmers and Communities Together
416 Agriculture Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824
Ph: (517) 432-0712
Fx: (517) 353-7961

Cell: (269) 501-1107
www.miffs.org <http://www.miffs.org>

4. Opening for an Organic Education Program Coordinator.

The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association announces an opening for an Organic Education Program Coordinator. This new position is possible with funding for three years from a USDA-SARE grant to OEFFA to support OEFFA's Growing Organics Program. The Organic Education Program Coordinator will be responsible for the development and implementation of educational programming work focusing on organic production.

Responsibilities

* Develop and implement conference workshops and single-day educational programs focused on organic production.
* Design and administer OEFFA's summer farm tours series.
* Organize and convene a farmer advisory committee for OEFFA's Growing Organics Program.
* Serve as liaison between OEFFA and OSU's Organic Food and Farm Education and Research (OFFER) Program, a leader in organic farming research.
* Coordinate OEFFA's apprenticeship program.
* Contribute to OEFFA's bi-monthly newsletter.
* Assist with publicity of OEFFA's programs.
* Oversee organic production content on the OEFFA website.
* Work with OFFER and Extension personnel to produce farmer-friendly fact sheets on organic production.
* Develop and facilitate a farmer-to-farmer knowledge network.
* Help organic and aspiring organic farmers by answering questions and providing informational resources.
* As needed, assist in writing grants for organic education programs.
* Assist in evaluation of SARE grant.

Qualifications: Education and experience sufficient to demonstrate the ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. Minimally, a BS or BA in natural sciences, environmental education, agriculture, or related area as well as some background in organic crop or horticultural production. Excellent oral and written communication skills desired. Previous experience in a non-profit setting desirable, as is previous experience working with farmers. Must have the ability to work well with OEFFA personnel, members, and the public; flexibility and openness in dealing with changing events and priorities; organization, planning, and project management skills.

This is a part-time position (25 hours/week). Salary is $14.25/hr, and benefits include health insurance, sick leave, and paid time off. The Organic Education Program Coordinator reports to the Program Director. The position is based in Columbus, Ohio, and will involve some travel.

How to Apply: Applications consist of cover letter, résumé, and names of three references (indicate relationship). Electronically submitted applications (preferred) should be addressed to Carol Goland, Executive Director, at [log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]> , or mail your application to Carol Goland, OEFFA, 41 Croswell, Columbus, OH 43214. For questions, contact Carol Goland at 614.421-2022. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled; however we prefer to find a candidate who can begin in November 2007.

5. Open House and tour the Community Kitchen Trailer -

This is a portable certified kitchen where one can prepare food for sale.

Monday, October 22, 4:00 - 7:00pm

Snacks prepared on site by local chefs

hot cider

livemusic

Networking & Information

for info: [log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]>