Resources for beginning farmers and existing farms are available through the UMass Extension program, part of the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. As the state's land-grant institution, the University of Massachusetts in Amherst has the technical resources, faculty and professional staff to provide the research-based assistance needed by farmers of all backgrounds. This includes diagnostic services for pest and soil management, technical guides on all aspects of sustainable production and marketing of food crops and two research farms where new crops and production practices are constantly evaluated and refined. We draw upon our Extension history, a body of experience with a wide range of educational apporaches to adult learning, from one-on-one training on the farm, to interactive workshops and academic coursework. Our goal is to enhance the likelihood of success of new agricultural enterprises by making the best resources and training available to all new or diversifying farmers in Massachusetts.
Educational Programs for Beginning Farmers
