HOPE – Historically underserved and socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, veterans and landowners are encouraged to attend the Arkansas Land & Community Development Corporation’s Southwest Regional Community Economic Development Conference July 30 at the University Of Arkansas Community College at Hope starting at 10 a.m.
The conference will address opportunities for community asset building, affordable housing and provisions for farm financing/rural micro business enterprises.
Elements of food safety and security will also be addressed; farmers markets and approaches to niche markets, organic and specialty crops production and marketing will be explored; business opportunities for beginning farmers and ranchers.
ALCDC’s activities are geared to assure that applicable United States Department of Agriculture’s services are understood. The conference will address farming as a sustainable and profitable business relying on analysis, technology and comprehensive planning, and complete implementation of the best practices of: Whole Farm Management; Financial Plans; Conservation Plans; Marketing Plans. Risk Management: Market Risk; Production Risk; Financial Risk; Human Risks and Legal Risks are all scheduled for discussion.Representatives from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, Rural Development, Strike Force and Arkansas Forestry Commission will address programs that are available for Socially Disadvantage and Limited Resource Ranchers, Veterans and Farmers. The Conference is free with lunch being provided at no cost.
For additional informational, contact Albert Jones at 734-3005.
