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Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises

Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises

Small Farms Networking

Our team enjoys creating opportunities for farmer-to-farmer discussion and collaboration. In addition to regular training events and conferences, the UF/IFAS Small Farm team has two regional farmer-to-farmer networking groups in the state. Learn how to get connected to these efforts and more!  Find upcoming programs on our Calendar page and companion information on the About Us and Get Help From Us pages.

Farmers discuss their experiences and learn from one another. Southwest Florida Small Farmers Network

Small farmers in Southwest Florida can network about diversified and sustainable farming systems. Our network started in 2007 and includes growers from Hillsborough to Collier Counties. This farmer group is facilitated by county UF/IFAS Extension Agriculture Agents in the region. Our goal is education to meet small farmer-identified priorities, issues, and needs with farmer-to-farmer contact and extension resources. A typical meeting starts with a farmer-led walking tour and description of farm operations in conjunction with extension presentations on topics preselected by the membership. Additional activities include a growers meeting, pot-luck lunch and seed swap. The intended audience is the small farmer who wants to develop a regional network of enterprises, and also for beginning farmers. Membership is open and at no cost.

SW Florida Small Farmer Network is the 2009 National Winner (Southern Region) of the Search for Excellence Award in the Sustainable Agriculture Program of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.

Click here to download the SW Florida Small Farmers Network brochure.

Visit the UF/IFAS Extension Small Farms Program You Tube Channel.

Check the Calendar for upcoming meetings.

Contact the following UF/IFAS Extension agents in the Southwest Florida region:

Network Meetings Typically Include a Potluck. Photo Credits UF/IFAS Communications Florida Agricultural Network - North Central Florida

The University of Florida / IFAS brings the agricultural community of North Central Florida together to develop stronger relationships and collaborations among farmers, chefs and other food entrepreneurs interested in sustainable food production. Our meetings usually start with a farm or site tour guided by the grower/operator. We also bring UF/IFAS experts to share updates and relevant information for your operation. Finally, we allow time for attendants to interact, learn from each other and make connections. There is a nominal fee to attend some of these events to cover any food expenses and host farmer preparation time.

We are covering the North Central Florida area from Jacksonville to Lake City to Ocala areas. Visit the Events Calendar section of this site for a listing of programs available.

Follow the network on Facebook.

Click here to download the Florida Agriculture Network brochure.

Visit the UF/IFAS Extension Small Farms Program You Tube Channel.

Click here to view the calendar for the Northeast Florida Region.

Contact the following UF/IFAS Extension agents in the North Central Florida region:

Other Florida Farmers Networks (Not hosted by UF/IFAS)

Organizations to Widen Your Network:

Group Specific Networks:

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Connect With Us

Dr. Danielle Treadwell
ddtreadw@ufl.edu
(352) 273-4775

Mary Beth Henry
mbhenry@ufl.edu
(863) 519-1049

Jose Perez Orozco
joseperezoro@ufl.edu
(352) 294-1692

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