The Center for Rural Affairs is seeking participants for its Conservation Mentorship Network. The goal of the network is to build peer-to-peer relationships among farmers and ranchers in Nebraska that foster learning, advance the adoption of conservation practices, and alleviate risk, all while maintaining viable agricultural operations that support families and rural communities.
About the network
The network aims to connect producers who are new to conservation with those who have been implementing practices for several years. To accommodate the diverse needs of producers, individuals will be connected based on several factors including location, operation type and size, and conservation goals.
Participants must be located in Nebraska and currently operate a farm or ranch, however landowners and retired producers will be considered.
Participant expectations
Mentors: Program mentors will act as an advisor to the assigned mentee(s). Due to the voluntary nature of this network, participants will be encouraged to communicate as often as determined by the individuals involved. Willing mentors may also be asked to host a field day or participate in a webinar or other online event. Experience with cost-share programs, such as the Conservation Stewardship Program or Environmental Quality Incentives Program, is desired, but not required.
Mentees: Producers of any experience level and operation size (rented or owned land) are welcome to join the network. Mentees must express an interest in and willingness to implement conservation practices on their farm or ranch. In addition to being mentored, mentees are encouraged to attend scheduled field days and/or online events.
Interested in joining?
If you’d like to join the network or request more information, fill out the form below or contact Kalee Olson at 402.687.2100 ext. 1022 or kaleeo@cfra.org.
Conservation Mentorship Network interest form
This material is based on work supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, General Mills, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture under agreement number 2004.23.077344.
The views and conclusions contained on this webpage are those of the author(s) and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions or policies of the U.S. Government or the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and its funding sources. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the U.S. Government or the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation or its funding sources. USDA and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation are equal opportunity providers and employers.
