Northeast Ohio New & Small Farm College to be held in October & November, 2009.

“Too Much to Mow—What Do I Grow?

            There is a growing trend in Ohio Agriculture toward the direct marketing of agricultural products featuring locally grown food products. Consumers are becoming more and more aware of the benefits of buying local and buying fresh. As the demand for local food products increases so does the interest in growing and producing a variety of agricultural products for these markets. Perhaps this is something that you have considered for your small acreage but do not know where to begin.

            To help new and existing farmers find ways to diversify their agricultural production, the Ohio State University Extension offices in the Western Reserve Extension Education and Research Area are pleased to announce that the Northeast Ohio New & Small Farm College titled “Too Much to Mow-What Do I Grow?” will be held from 6:30-9:00 p.m. on October 29, November 5, 12, 19 at the Grindstone Creek Lodge located at 4-H Camp Whitewood, 7983 Wiswell Road in Windsor, Ohio.

            This college will help new and existing farmers increase their profits from their small acreage.  The first session will teach the basic business concepts needed to start and keep a small farm enterprise operating.  This session will focus on developing real-life expectations for your small farm, goals and objectives, and developing a business plan for your operation.  The second session will help participants decide what to grow on their farm and how to develop budgets for farm enterprises.  The third session will focus on marketing and selling agricultural products to local consumers through direct marketing, wholesale markets, farm markets and local cooperatives. The final session will help participants become aware of the local resources which are available to assist small farms.  Representatives from the Farm Bureau, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Soil and Water Conservation District, Farm Service Agency, and the Auditor’s Office will be on hand to share their expertise.

            The cost for all four sessions will be $75.00 for the first family member and $50 for each additional family member. This will include a reference notebook and refreshments. This college is limited to 35 participants.  Anyone planning to attend the program should pre-register by October 9. To pre-register or for more information, contact the Ashtabula County Extension office at 440-576-9008.