Posted March 18, 2014
 
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced new and expanded efforts to connect small- and mid-sized farmers and ranchers with USDA resources, according to a USDA News Release available here.
 
“The recent Census of Agriculture shows that there is tremendous growth potential for small and mid-sized producers in the American agricultural landscape,” said Vilsack.  “USDA is taking a hard look at our existing resources to ensure that they work for producers of all sizes.  We’ve adjusted policies, strengthened programs and intensified outreach to meet the needs of small and mid-sized producers.”
 
New efforts announced include: 
 
Access to capital, including changes to the Farm Storage and Facility Loan (FSFL) Program to help fruit and vegetable producers access the program for cold storage and related equipment; funding for producers under the microloan program; and funding for hoop houses.
 
Risk management, including developing a whole farm insurance policy for highly-diversified producers.
 
Locating market opportunities, including new coordinators to connect producers with the Farm to School program.
 
Food safety, including launching pilot programs in five states to help small and mid-sized farmers achieve Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification.
 
Educational resource and outreach efforts, including a “Learning Guide Series” specifically for small and mid-sized farmers and “Small Scale Solutions for Your Farm” for small livestock and fruit and vegetable producers.
 
Expansion or modifications for certain programs through the 2014 Farm Bill, including the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, Value-Added Producer Grant Program, and the Farmers Market and Local food Promotion Program.
 
Additional information on USDA’s Small and Mid-Sized Farmer Resources is available here.

 

The National Agricultural Law Center offers more information on agricultural finance and credit, risk management, food safety, local food systems, and the 2014 Farm Bill.
 
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