Project Overview
The Organic Grain Resources And Information Network (OGRAIN)
increased the number of organic grain farmers in the Upper Midwest by
developing an educational resource base and building a network of
engaged
farmers, educators, and stakeholders. Beginning farmers
interested in growing organic grain, for feed or for food, are entering a
steadily growing industry with premiums capable of supporting an
aspiring grower. However, agronomic challenges, a difficult transition
process, and a lack of knowledge or skills in organic management have
kept beginning farmers from accessing this desirable market.
OGRAIN's
mission is to remove these barriers and ensure operational success
through farmer-focused curriculum, effective mentoring, marketing
assistance, and easily accessible resources. Through collaborating with
partners who have proven track records implementing successful beginning
farmer-focused programs, OGRAIN has 1.) Delivered a three-week
intensive course hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Farm
and Industry Short Course, co-taught by farmers and University faculty,
and available streaming online
2.) Provided full-day workshops at the
annual Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES)
Organic Farming Conference, 3.) Invested in farmer networks by
participating in MOSES’ Farmer-to-Farmer Mentoring Program, pairing
beginning farmers with experienced growers, 4.) Increased
farmer-to-farmer
interaction and exchange through hosting multiple
educational “field walks”, 5.) Produced a series of training videos
focusing on priority topics for beginning organic grain farmers
throughout the country, and 6.) Built a regularly updated online
learning library.
In our programming we've engaged over 1,500
participants, effectively creating the largest and most effective
resource and education network focused on beginning organic grain
production in the nation. OGRAIN is ever-evolving, learning from
challenges, and moving forward with, and for, beginning farmers
throughout the Upper Midwest.
Number of Participants: 1092
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