Outreach to Underserved Farmers and Landowners in Arkansas

Efforts to engage minority and limited resource farmers in conservation efforts often face unique challenges. These landowners and farm operators tend to be older and operate smaller farms with restricted earning capacity. These operators are often less aware of technical assistance opportunities and technical information on new developments, and they often have limited financial ability to invest in new practices that may have conservation benefits. To help surmount these challenges, this project aims to demonstrate the use of a case management model to design and deliver conservation services to enrolled participants. Under this model, the regional Arkansas Land and Farm Development Corporation Field Agent and farmer participants will assess current on-site operations and conditions and identify opportunities and priorities for improved resource conservation practices. Staff can then assist the farmer in developing and obtaining the needed management skills training as well as the required technical and financial resources to plan and implement identified actions. The project aims to help 300 limited resource and socially disadvantaged farmers and landowners develop and adopt a plan to conserve soil and water resources and to reduce, control and trap nutrient runoff.