Fingerlakespermaculture mailing list

["Michael Burns" <michael AT fingerlakespermaculture.org>]

Quick! Answer these four questions:

Do you wear muddy boots more than you wear high heels?

Do you believe women farmers learn more effectively from each other?

Would you like to learn from other women farmers?

Have you been farming less than 10 years?

If you answered “yes” to at least three of the above questions, you have a
chance to join other farming women for support and camaraderie learning about
whole farm planning. Through funds from a USDA grant, beginning women farmers
in NY can learn more about whole farm planning in a program developed
specifically for women. It costs nothing but your time and interest.

This program includes:
One-on-One Mentorships
On-Farm Field Visits
Business & Financial Planning Training
Network of Women Farmers

Classes will be scheduled beginning early November 2010 and continuing through
Spring 2011 with farm visits during the growing season of 2011. Commitment to
attend all sessions is expected.  Exact training locations and dates to be
determined.

Topics include:
1. Introduction to Whole Farm Planning; Creating a Values-based Farm Mission;
Improved Decision Making Process
2. Increasing Farm Profitability (Gross Profit Analysis; Enterprise Analysis)
3. Creating a Farm Financial Plan
4. Business Planning Basics
5. Creating a Marketing Plan
6. Soil Fertility Basics; Examining Enterprise Environmental Impact
7. Time Management
8. Land and Infrastructure Planning
9. Leadership and Communication Skills
10. Improving Soil Health with Livestock, Cover Crops, and Rotations

Sound good? If you are interested in learning more or applying for this
program, please contact Phil Metzger at 607-334-3231, x4 or
phil.metzger AT ny.usda.gov

Application deadline is September 30, 2010!

** Want to be a farmer mentor in this program?**
If so, please contact Phil for more information and to apply.



The Finger Lakes Permaculture Institute
offers workshops, apprenticeships, and
permaculture design certificate classes.
http://www.fingerlakespermaculture.org