BEGINNING FARMER PROGRAM

Beginning Farmer program seeks to match new producers with those looking to exit dairying; Program also assists with farm transfers in established partnerships

By Dick Horne of the Beginning Farmer Program
The Beginning Farmer Program is offered through the cooperation of the Northeast Iowa Community Based Dairy Foundation, Iowa Farm Bureau, six local county Farm Bureau Boards, Citizen Savings Bank of Spillville and Fort Atkinson, Wapsi Valley Creamery and the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

The program, run by Dick Horne, helps farmers work with family members or non-family members to help in the transition of the farm from one generation to another. Many families know what they want to do but need help to start the process and have someone coach them through the transfer. The Beginning Farmer Program program can help.

The second part of the transition program offers to match farmers wishing to move the operation to the next generation but do not have a family member to pass it on to. The Beginning Farmer program tries to match up young people wanting to farm but do not have a farm to go to with the person looking to retire. They can then enter the mentoring phase, working together to see if it is a good fit.

If you would like more information about the program you can call Dick Horne at 563-534-7211 (work) or 563-562-4225 (home). Call 563-534-9957 ext 101 if you are interested in learning more about any of these programs/ events.