Bolstering Foundational Skillsets of Maine Agricultural Service Providers

Project Overview

SNE24-007-ME
Project Type: PDP State Program
Funds awarded in 2024: $140,998.00
Projected End Date: 09/30/2027
Grant Recipient: University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Region: Northeast
State: Maine
State Coordinator:
Peyton Ginakes
Email
University of Maine Cooperative Extension

Commodities

Not commodity specific

Practices

  • Education and Training: extension, networking, workshop, other

    Proposal abstract:

    Much like the number of new farmers in Maine, the number of agricultural service providers (ASPs) who are new to their roles are increasing in the state.  These service providers are often subject matter experts with less formal training in outreach and engagement.  This three-year plan aims to provide ASPs, especially those who are new to their roles, with foundational skillsets that reflect core tenets of effective agricultural programming.  Using an array of educational approaches ranging from online webinars to full-day farm visits, participant cohorts will engage in annual training programs to focus on the following distinct topics: 1) conducting needs assessments, 2) developing engaging, effective, and goal-oriented programs, and 3) whole farm analysis.

    Performance targets from proposal:

    Nine Maine agricultural service providers will use improved foundational skills to conduct needs assessments, develop engaging, effective, and goal-oriented programming, and improve sustainability of farms via whole farm analysis, ultimately benefitting 78 producers.

    Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.