Small Farm Outreach Training & Technical Assistance Project  

Farmers throughout the state of Mississippi, continue to face significant challenges in maintaining operation and sustaining growth of their business. Research have shown that farms of small size, have restricted income generating capability, receives low processing, incur higher input, have limited managerial capability and have limited access to credit. Small farmers of Mississippi, as well as nationwide, are experiencing financial difficulties, which have led to bankruptcies, foreclosures, and stressful emotional conditions. According to the most recent census for the state of Mississippi, the number of limited resource farmers has declined as much as three-times that of non-limited resource farmers. The major factors leading to the decline of small farmers includes, but are not limited to: poor management, land loss, shortage of capital, marketing, limited knowledge of available USDA programs, enterprise diversification and value-added processing capabilities.

The overall objective of the project is to (1)develop and implement a statewide proportional program for Socially Disadvantage Farmers and assist eligible farmers who are interested in acquiring Farm Operations loans; (2) to develop a computerized data base on all participating farm borrowers for use in doing on farm financial analysis and developing farm plans; (3) To utilize Farm Service Agency (FSA) inventory as well as others available farm land and establish Small Farm Training Centers, and to increase the number of socially disadvantaged farm owners; (4) conduct required in-service training for both new farmers wishing to qualify for USDA programs and to provide business management skills for primary loan servicing for existing farm program borrowers; (5) to develop and enhance business management and marketing skills of selected FSA borrowers and small family farmers; (6) to develop the financial documentation of the farm business to the point where graduation to a commercial lender is feasible; (7) to develop a long range base for self sustaining farm business analysis through existing associations and institutions; (8) assist farmers in obtaining conservation plans through (NRCS) Natural Resource Conservation Plans; (9) assisting eligible individuals in applying for a home. 

Conduct clinical Outreach Counseling and crisis management assistance for financially stressed and dislocated farmers and rural families.

Conducted Educational programs for small family farmers on alternative employment, alternative farm income-generating activities and skill building.

Conducted workshops designed to assist small family farmers to improve their income through improved farm and family financial management practices.

Family Farmers will have an opportunity to develop and maintain a Cooperative based on community and market needs.