Penn State Extension to hold beginning farmer workshop

MERCER, Pa. — A beginning farmer workshop will be held on March 23 at the Mercer County Cooperative Extension Office, 463 N. Perry Highway, Mercer.

This full-day forum will allow you to tap into the knowledge of experts and experienced farmers to answer the necessary questions to start your own farming operation. This innovative workshop is for beginning farmers and will cover available financial resources as well as basic farm financial record keeping.

Marketing strategies for a successful farming operation and farm insurance needs will also be discussed in detail. The Farm Service Agency and the Natural Resource Conservation Service programs will be highlighted.

A diversified group of farmers will share their knowledge and experience and answer your questions about successes and challenges they have encountered. They will share both the pros and cons of their farming experiences, which will enable you to make informed decisions as you move forward with your farming plans.

You will gain a wealth of knowledge you may use to either start your own farm or diversify your current operation. This program is a collaborative effort by Pennsylvania Farm Link, Penn State Extension-Mercer County, and The Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture.

For more information about the program or to register, call Mercer County Cooperative Extension at 724-662-3141 or Pennsylvania Farm Link at 717-705-2121.

Information also is available at www.mercercountyagdevelopment.com and http://extension.psu.edu/mercer. The registration fee for this event is $25 and is due by March 15.