Topic: A Farmer’s Perspective: Implementing NRCS Practices on a Diversified Farm
What’s the process of working with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) like?
Is it worth it to apply for the programs?
What does applying REALLY entail?
Join us in conversation with 3 sustainable farmers who have utilized NRCS EQIP programs to improve their soil, water, air, plants, animal production, and overall business. We’ll discuss what NRCS programs and conservation activities were implemented to support their farms, how these programs benefited their operations, and what to expect when working with the NRCS. We’ll also have time for general questions from participants.
Farmers:
Jena Hood | EarthDance Organic Farm School – Ferguson, MO
Jena Hood is an organic farmer and educator rooted in Ferguson, Missouri. They first came to EarthDance Organic Farm School as an apprentice in 2018 and now serve as Director of Agriculture & Education after several years of working in farm and education leadership roles. At EarthDance, Jena helps steward the farm as both a place of nourishment and a space for learning—where neighbors, apprentices, and beginning farmers can grow food and connections. They hope to inspire others to believe in ecologically minded, organically guided agriculture as a sustainable model for the community, for the farmer, and for the planet.
NRCS focus areas: EQIP – high tunnels, composting pad, Forest Management Plan, high tunnel drainage/water management, micro-irrigation, pumping well
Crystal Stevens | Flourish Farmstead – Godfrey, IL
Crystal Stevens co-owns Flourish Farmstead with her husband and children in Godfrey, IL, Flourish integrates passion for earth stewardship with farming and permaculture experience to provide education and a myriad of products to bring health and vibrancy to your home. They grow medical and culinary herbs, perennial fruits, vegetables, a small orchard, and cut flowers. Crystal leads an Herbal Training Program and other herbalism education.
NRCS focus areas: EQIP – high tunnel
Peggy Ladd | Klondike Bison & Bee – DeSoto, MO
Peggy Ladd began working toward rebuilding the family farm with the goal of raising bison, and the end goal of providing quality grass-fed and grass-finished bison meat to the greater St Louis market. The bison began arriving in the Fall of 2019, and two years later, began providing humanely raised bison meat to the community. With an eye to caring for the land Peggy has utilized many NRCS practices to benefit the soil and water on the farm, as well as the bison.
NRCS focus areas: EQIP – pasture conversions (with warm season grasses), water tank improvements, Timber Stand Improvement, drainage improvements
Recording
This webinar will be recorded and will be publicly available following the event.
Accessibility Considerations:
- This webinar will be conducted in English. We will not have translation services available.
- Participation requires a working internet connection
- While questions are encouraged, you are not required to speak in order to participate. Additionally, keeping your camera on is helpful for the speakers, but isn’t required.
Questions?
Please contact Serena: Serena@GatewayFarmers.org or 314.561.7010 Ext 2