| PROJECT SUMMARY |
| As young adults consider their future in production agriculture, education is critical to help individuals make informed decisions regarding a career as a farmer or rancher. Understanding the nature of the business, the risk involved, and the lifestyle implied by both is critical to a successful career choice. Seeking to fill the information needs in the career choices being made by the high school age audience, this project has two objectives. The first is to create an on-line resource for career decisions and career development. Through a lesson style format, participants will learn about the principles of production agriculture businesses with an emphasis on the risky nature of farming and ranching. Additionally, the participant will receive guidance in sorting through the multitude of educational opportunities that will prepare them for a successful career in farming or ranching. The second major component is to develop a prototype of a simulation game. The game would help teach the concept of how risk and management decisions interact. The goal of the game is to help the participant decide if an agriculture career is the right choice for them, and if it is, encourage them to seek out education and other resources in the area of risk management. |
| NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 250 |
| TOPICS COVERED |
| Product and enterprise diversification |
| Market analysis and outlook |
| Cash and futures pricing tools |
| Marketing strategies, plans and clubs |
| Direct, wholesale, and processing markets |
| Credit |
| Tools for managing legal liability |
| Leases, contracts and negotiation |
| Understanding of economic risks associated with new production technologies |
| Business and strategic planning |
| Interpersonal, family and business relationships |
