New Farmer School

  • A fence in a field

New Farmer School 2023

The nuts and bolts of farming as a business in New Hampshire

Get a jump-start on growing your agricultural business with this intensive multi-session course! Each session will build upon knowledge gained in previous sessions and address a wide variety of topics that will be applicable to any new farmer.  This course is a great way to get up to speed quickly on the business and science of agriculture, network with other new farmers, and work closely with Extension staff as you develop your business and production ideas.

Course topics include soils and site assessment, agricultural regulations, enterprise selection, infrastructure considerations, marketing, insurance basics, and financial and production record-keeping. Participants will also learn about state agencies and other agriculture service providers in New Hampshire.  

 There are eight total sessions, with some on zoom and some are in-person. In person sessions are optional, but we recommend attending, as they are engaging opportunities to network with other new farmers, and learn from experienced farmers in the state. 

Full attendance and completion of  coursework fulfills the borrower training requirement for USDA Farm Service Agency Loans. 

The registration cost for this course is $250 per person or $450 for two people from the same farm. In 2023, this course will be offered online with optional in-person sessions held at farms throughout New Hampshire.

Registration for 2023 has now ended. 

2023 Schedule

  • August 8:  In-person/Hybrid, 6 to 7:30 pm  | Welcome and Introductions, Whole Farm Planning
  • August 22: In-person (Optional), 9 am to 3 pm | Nalla Farm, Bascom Road Blueberry Farm | Site and Soil Evaluation, Farm Infrastructure
  • September 5: Zoom Session, 6 to 7:30 pm | Production Records and Scheduling
  • September 19: Zoom Session, 6 to 7:30 pm | Enterprise Budgeting & Cash Flow Budgets
  • October 3: In-person (optional), 9 am to 3 pm | Spring Ledge Farm, AOR Farm | Farm Tools & Equipment, Season Extension, Succession Plantings, Soil Health, Irrigation and Soil Moisture Management
  • October 17: Zoom Session, 6 to 7:30 pm | Meet Agriculture Service Providers
  • November 1: (Wednesday) Zoom Session, 6 to 7:30 pm | Financial Statements, Insurance Basics
  • November 14: In-person (optional), 9 am to 3 pm | Vernon Family Farm, Three Rivers Farmers Alliance | Marketing: A Farmer's Perspective and Working with a Wholesale Buyer

Class materials are available to participants in lieu of the in-person session for those who cannot or do not wish to attend in-person sessions.

Download the course expectations.

 

Contact your local UNH Extension Field Specialist:

Technology:

  • Technology needed for this course includes Internet access, the ability to participate in video conferencing sessions, word processing and spreadsheet software, and the ability to read pdf files.  at least 10 business days prior to the first session if any technology accommodations are needed.

Scholarships:

  • A limited number of scholarships are available for those with financial need. 

For help with technology, scholarships, or other accommodations  please contact Will Hastings at least 10 business days prior to the course start date.