Sandra Renner, sandrar@cfra.org, 402.687.2100; or Rhea Landholm, brand marketing and communications manager, rheal@cfra.org or 402.687.2100 ext. 1025
Lyons, NE - The Center for Rural Affairs will host the fourth in its series of learning circles of women farmers and landowners in eastern Nebraska to provide sustainable farming and conservation education and outreach. Working with NRCS and FSA Programs will be held at Common Good Farm near Raymond, Neb., on Sept. 10, 2016.
The circles are co-led by agricultural professionals at the Center for Rural Affairs and farmer-leaders. They provide education on successful and sustainable production in a changing climate.
"We encourage any woman who is interested in farming or already farming to participate,” commented Sandra Renner with the Center for Rural Affairs. “Our first three circles have been well attended and look forward to gathering together again to learn more from one another."
Renner added, “Whether beginning or established farmers, we have seen that women on farms largely share a commitment to environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Most raise a combination of specialty crops and small livestock, often with organic practices.”
According to the Center for Rural Affairs, learning circles are an important, innovative method for giving participants the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to enact change. In addition to learning from experts, our group will engage in peer-to-peer learning. Women farming largely share a commitment to environmental, economic, and social sustainability, and the learning circle model supports engagement between women.
Participating women are considered the “experts” on their own production, farmland, and conservation needs, and are encouraged to speak about their own experiences and goals rather than passively listen to a professional in a traditional lecture format. This format builds knowledge, confidence, and community.
Event Details:
What: Women Farmer and Landowner Learning Circles: Working with NRCS and FSA programs
When:
Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016
9 to 11:30 a.m.
Where:
Common Good Farm, 17201 NW 40th St, Raymond, Neb., 68428
Topic: Working with NRCS and FSA programs: Participants will tour Common Good Farm, a certified bio-dynamic farm and Nebraska’s oldest CSA, to learn more about how they’re using hoop houses to extend their growing season. They’ll also hear from other farmers using NRCS and FSA programs, and how those might benefit their farm business.
Light refreshments and snacks will be provided after the learning circle.
Since space is limited, interested participants are asked to register in advance by Sept. 7 to reserve a space.
Save the date for our last Women’s Learning Circle of 2016 to be held at the Women Food & Ag Network Annual Conference on Nov. 4-5, 2016 in Nebraska City, Neb., at Lied Lodge. Stay tuned for details about special activities during the conference and offerings for learning circle participants.
