| PROJECT SUMMARY |
| In the Black Belt and most underserved communities in North Alabama, where jobs are scarce and the living is hard, agricultural educators and community advocates are trying to encourage farmers to grow something other than cotton or raise livestock other than beef cattle. There are many alternative or new enterprises to venture into, but most small and limited resource producers wonder if a defined market exists for a particular product. Because limited resource producers have diverse needs, the Small Farms Research Center at AAMU and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System are encouraging producers to examine the different options available to them as they evaluate the merits of the different production and marketing alternatives. Some of the options, which are themselves risk management strategies, include value-added agriculture and enterprise diversification. This project will (1) provide specialized education and training to farmers and extension personnel in specific key areas that promote direct marketing, value-added agriculture, alternative enterprises, and enterprise diversification as means of coping with risk; and (2) produce a risk managemnet and sustainable agriculture resource guide/handbook for farmers and agricultural professionals in Alabama. These objectives will be attained through the application of a holistic approach to education,outreach and technical assistance, and through close partnership with our collaborating agencies or organizations. |
| NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 1250 |
| TOPICS COVERED |
| Insurance products |
| Product and enterprise diversification |
| Marketing strategies, plans and clubs |
| Direct, wholesale, and processing markets |
| Contract production, branded or certified marketing, and value-added enterprises |
| Understanding of economic risks associated with new production technologies |
| Business and strategic planning |
| Ability to manage changes in policy and regulation |
