Training the Next Generation of Maine Farmers - GSMSummit 2014, Abby Sadauckas
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Transcript of Training the Next Generation of Maine Farmers - GSMSummit 2014, Abby Sadauckas
www.mofga.org [email protected]
MOFGA’s Apprenticeship Program connects people wanting to learn organic farming with experienced farmers willing to share their expertise.
• In 2014 180 apprentices and 10 mentor farmers participated in the program
• Since 2000 a total of 1,475 new farmers have participated in the program
• Established in 1975 the Apprenticeship Program has now been modeled in 7 other states
MOFGA’s Journeyperson Program provides hands-on support, training, and mentorship for people who are serious about pursuing careers in organic farming in Maine.
Participants are awarded a 2-year package of support, including: • Mentorship
• Technical Assistance
• Educational Stipend
• MOFGA Farm Beginnings© whole-farm planning curriculum
• Discounts with FEDCO & Johnny’s Selected Seeds
• Assistance for land access & land tenure issues through partnerships with
Maine Farmland Trust and Land For Good
Program Impacts • Percentage of farmers at the Portland Farmers Market who
are current or past participants in MOFGA’s New Farmer Programs: 49%
• Percentage of Community Supported Agriculture, (CSA) Farms that are current or past participants in MOFGA’s New Farmer Programs: 50%
• Annual Economic and community development value of each new farm operation : $63,000
• Percentage of Journeyperson farms that are partly or wholly woman-owned: 68%