Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate, kirstinb@cfra.org, 402.870.2390; or Rhea Landholm, brand marketing and communications manager, rheal@cfra.org, 402.687.2100 ext 1025
LYONS, NEBRASKA - Women farmers and landowners are invited to attend a series of learning circles next month. The circles are led by women farmer-leaders who are supported by Center for Rural Affairs staff. The circle sessions will cover a variety of topics at each gathering.
Learning circles are peer group sessions that consider participants as the experts on their own production, farmland, and conservation needs. Information, experience, and resources are shared at each circle, allowing women to implement what they’ve learned into their own farm business or operation.
“This format provides an opportunity for women to determine what they are most interested in exploring about each topic,” said Kirstin Bailey, project organizer at Center for Rural Affairs. “We based this year’s topics on feedback from the group during last year’s circles.”
There is no charge to attend. Aspiring, beginning, experienced, and retired women farmers are all welcome. Participants can attend the whole series or select sessions. Each learning circle session will include time to ask questions and network with other women. Refreshments will be provided.
Details for each circle are as follows:
- Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017, 9 to 11 a.m., Diversification, on-farm businesses, and season extension at Great Plains Nursery, 3074 County Rd I, Weston, Nebraska
- Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017, 9 to 11 a.m., Self-care and “Business of the business” at Common Good Farm, 17201 NW 40th St., Raymond, Nebraska
- Sunday, Aug. 20, 2017, 2 to 5 p.m., Value-added producer grants, getting involved in conservation and policy, micro-creamery tour at Darby Springs Farm, 414 Co Rd. 15, Ceresco, Nebraska
“Women are connecting with one another in a supportive environment,” added Bailey. “The learning circles have helped to create a network that women can turn to for resources.”
For more information, visit cfra.org/events. This learning circle series is funded in part by a grant from USDA North Central SARE.
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