Beginning Farmers and Ranchers

Nearly a third of Florida’s farmers have been farming for less than 10 years, and are therefore considered beginning farmers and ranchers (USDA, 2012). Running a successful farm operation takes long and short term planning, creativity and a supportive community. National and State statistics show our farming population is approaching retirement so Florida needs beginning farmers! 

The Florida Cooperative Extension Service is in every Florida County and has staff with a breadth of experience. We provide training for farmers, but also for market managers, crop advisors, and food entrepreneurs. Our extension team is ready to help you with:

• On-site and face to face meetings
• Hands-on classes including livestock, crop production, farm food safety and networking opportunities. Check out our Calendar.
• Crop specific recommendations. Find these on our Production and BMP pages.

Soak in even more information on our Planning and Management pages including Enterprise Budgets and Farm Financing. Check out the resources below to get you pointed in the right direction as you begin.