Integrated Vegetable Production, Pest Management, Food Safety, and Digital Marketing Training for Small-Scale Farmers in South Carolina ______________

Project Overview

SSC26-002
Project Type: PDP State Program
Funds awarded in 2026: $22,000.00
Projected End Date: 06/30/2027
Grant Recipient: South Carolina State University
Region: Southern
State: South Carolina
State Coordinators:
Dr. Joshua Idassi
South Carolina State University
Co-Coordinators:
Mark Nettles
South Carolina State University, 1890 Research and Extension

Commodities

No commodities identified

Practices

No practices identified

Proposal abstract:

Small-scale vegetable producers face persistent challenges related to production efficiency, pest pressure, food safety compliance, and access to profitable markets. This project proposes a year-long, integrated workshop series designed to build farmer capacity in sustainable vegetable production, integrated pest management (IPM), food safety practices, and digital marketing.

Through four targeted workshops delivered between June 2026 and October 2027, participating farmers will gain practical, hands-on knowledge that supports environmentally sound production, regulatory compliance, and improved market access. The project will serve at least 40 farmers through in-person and hybrid trainings, field demonstrations, and follow-up technical support. Expected outcomes include increased adoption of sustainable practices, improved food safety readiness, and enhanced farm profitability through digital marketing tools.

This project directly aligns with SSARE's goals of advancing agricultural systems that are environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible.

Project objectives from proposal:

Expected Outcomes & Impacts

  • At least 40 farmers trained
  • 70% of participants adopt at least one new sustainable practice
  • Reduced pest management costs through increased IPM adoption
  • Improved food safety awareness and GAP readiness
  • Increased digital presence and direct-to-consumer sales opportunities

    Funds will support high-quality, farmer-centered training facilitated by subject matter experts and hands-on demonstrations. The addition of a Program Assistant ensures timely program implementation, participant engagement, and efficient reporting. All costs are reasonable, necessary, and directly aligned with the project's objectives.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and should not be construed to represent any official USDA or U.S. Government determination or policy.