“KC F.A.R.M.E.R.S. (Kansas City Farmers and Ranchers for Mentoring, Education, and Resource Sharing) Coalition” is a project of KC Farm School at Gibbs Road and Kansas City Black Urban Growers Inc. (KC BUGs), and was developed to provide farmer-led, hands-on education for beginning farmers and ranchers across the Kansas City region and to preserve farmland for future generations.
One-third of our nation’s farmers are 65 years old or older. Many farmers nearing retirement do not have a successor to continue their work. At the same time, we are at an opportune moment, with nearly one-quarter of all farmers being beginning farmers. By bringing these two groups together through farmer-led skills training, business education, and farm transition facilitation, the KC F.A.R.M.E.R.S coalition will work to attract and support the next generation of farmers and ensure the continuity of farming and its vital contributions to society, as well as the preservation of farmland.
This coalition includes beginning farmers and ranchers, business and training partners, as well as experienced farmers and ranchers. They will work together collaboratively, using the principles of collective impact, to address community-identified needs. The coalition will develop business and leadership capacity by sharing resources, creating mentorship opportunities, and hosting hands-on business training and community rebuilding activities.
Supporting new and beginning farmers has multiple benefits. Farming is crucial for food security, economic development, rural growth, and urban connection to the land. Sustainable farming practices play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change. Additionally, farming is deeply rooted in cultural heritage, maintaining traditional knowledge and community identity.
The KC F.A.R.M.E.R.S coalition aims to support beginning farmers and ranchers in the Kansas City area. We will achieve this by combining collective impact, providing extensive mentorship and financial support to farmers and ranchers, and rooting all coalition activities in community rebuilding practices. Our goal is to help new farmers and ranchers start and sustain their farming endeavors while preserving the farmland crucial to food production.
Become A Coalition Member
The KC F.A.R.M.E.R.S. Coalition is dedicated to supporting and expanding our local agricultural community. Whether you are an experienced farmer or rancher, an aspiring grower, or simply passionate about local food production, our coalition is designed to help you grow and provide mutual support for success. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic network built on collaboration, support, and innovation.
Learn More
Several benefits are available to coalition members, including financial resources, educational training, mentorship, technical and business assistance, and community support, among others.
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