Young & Beginning Farmers
The future of agriculture depends on young and beginning farmers. Whether you are from a farming family or new to the world of agriculture, this page is here for you on your journey! If you are just getting started or want to continue learning, there are some great resources in agricultural education for beginning farmers. Looking for land, or want to get started in the process? Learn about land access and look for listings by other NOFA-NH members. Want to learn more about starting and maintaining a farm business? There are resources here for you. Whether you are just starting out or five years in, there are many community farm groups you can join. If you still want some more time in the field before committing to your own farm, make sure to check out our job board, with up-to-date postings.
Beginning Farmer Education
-
THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF FARMING AS A BUSINESS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
Get a jump-start on growing your agricultural business with this intensive multi-session course! Offering a wide variety of topics that will be applicable to any new farmer and sessions that build upon knowledge gained in previous sessions, this course is a great way to get up to speed quickly on the business and science of agriculture. Network with other new farmers, and work closely with Extension staff as you develop your business and productions ideas.
-
The Cornell Small Farms Program is housed in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University. Their current projects engage farmers at the front-end of challenges they face and also introduce them to new and emerging opportunities.
-
MOFGA Farm Beginnings is an online farmer-led program to help guide those with a strong commitment to creating a sustainable farm business achieve their goals.
-
A Massachusetts-based group working with new farmers to build strong businesses, expertise in the field, and a resilient food system.
Land
Access
Find land access resources here:
Business Planning Resources
-
New to farming? Want to learn how to start a farm? USDA offers dedicated help to beginning farmers and ranchers. USDA considers anyone who has operated a farm or ranch for less than ten years to be a beginning farmer or rancher.
USDA can help you get started or grow your operation through a variety of programs and services, from farm loans to crop insurance, and conservation programs to disaster assistance. Learn more here!
-
The Carrot Project supports agricultural businesses securing their futures by breaking down financial barriers, and building their path to sustainability. They do this as business advisors and through education, advocacy, and research. Learn more here!
-
Farmers must navigate a complex business landscape and have the skillset for not only production proficiency but also effective marketing, labor management, record keeping, and financial aptitude.
Intervale Center’s team of experienced business planners works with farmers at any stage of farm business development. From the beginning of a farm business idea to transferring an existing farm to new owners and everything in between, their team meets farmers where they are at. They aim to empower farmers to achieve their business and quality of life goals through planning and skill-building. Learn more here!
Farmer Community Groups
Farmer Resources
For more information, check out our farmer resources page
Job Board
Stay in Touch with NOFA-NH’s Farmer Newsletter
Sign up for the Farmer Newsletter to stay up to date with organic farming in New Hampshire. Receive monthly resources, farmer activities & opportunities, and have connection with the organic farming community!