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Tomatoes
Virtual Farmers & Landowners Workshop (9/21/21)

The following presentations were part of a 2021 Farmers and Landowners Webinar Series hosted by Minority Landowner in partnership with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Texas. Although most of these programs and services are available across the country, programs and funding can vary over time and from state to state. Use these presentations as a guide, and contact your local offices to determine what is currently available within your state. You can locate your local USDA offices using our website under the Resources tab.

NRCS Texas Welcome

Minority Landowner Publisher and Editor Victor L. Harris and Natural Resources Conservation Service Texas Deputy State Conservationist J.B. Martin welcome attendees to the 2021 Farmers and Landowners Workshop.

NRCS State Conservationist Kristy Oates

NRCS State Conservationist Kristy Oates delivered a welcome and overview of NRCS operations and programs during three days of workshops across the state of Texas.

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Programs

NRCS Resource Team Leader Veronica O'Donnell explains the technical assistance and financial assistance programs available to farmers and landowners. These include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program. She also discusses how NRCS can help farmers create a plan, and provides guidance on program eligibility requirements.

High Tunnel Funding, Construction, Use, and Benefits

High tunnels look like greenhouses, but instead of growing plants in pots plants are grown in the ground. Urban Conservationists Alex Beaton and James Rodriguez tell you what a high tunnel is, how you may be eligible to receive funding to purchase and construct one, tips on construction, how to use it, and the benefits of high tunnels. Those benefits include extending your crop’s growing season.

USDA Farm Service Agency Loan Programs

USDA Farm Service Agency State Outreach Coordinator Joshua Coleman describes a variety of farm loan programs that can help you start and grow your agricultural operation. These loans include acquisition loans, operating loans, and youth loans.

NRCS Partnerships – Austin Community College  

Savannah Rugg is Chair of the Department of Agricultural Sciences at Austin Community College. She will describe the College’s partnership with NRCS, and how it led to the Austin Community College’s Sustainable Student Farm being selected to receive a high tunnel through NRCS and Minority Landowner.

Programs and services do change over time. Use these presentations as a guide and contact the relevant agency or organization for the most current information.

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