Title

Extension strengthens Nevada’s food security by training a new generation of farmers

Relevance

{"ops":[{"insert":"Nevada’s agricultural sector faces significant challenges. With the average U.S. farmer now 57.5 years old, and one-third over 65, the state confronts a growing workforce gap as experienced producers retire. This issue has been exacerbated by a 20% national decline in new farmers between 2012 and 2017 driven by high startup costs, limited access to land and a lack of mentorship, obstacles that are especially acute in Nevada’s arid environment. \n\nThe Herds & Harvest Program addresses these challenges by promoting a resilient, locally grown food system. By training new farmers in sustainable practices and business strategies, the program helps ensure the future of Nevada agriculture while strengthening the economy through agriculture-related job creation and support for both rural and urban communities. \n"}]}

Response

{"ops":[{"insert":"Training Certifications "},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nIn 2024, the Herds & Harvest Beginning Farmer & Rancher Program offered two certification tracks: Farm-to-Fork and Small-Acreage Certification. These programs were designed to connect small-scale farmers with local food systems while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. They provided training, resources and certification opportunities to help producers optimize small-acreage operations and meet the growing demand for fresh, locally sourced foods.\n\nDuring the first quarter of 2024, 24 participants enrolled in the Farm-to-Fork and Small-Acreage Certification programs. The training included five weeks of online instruction led by industry professionals, followed by a tour in northern Nevada during the spring. After completing the tour, participants submitted business plans and budgets for review. In early fall, the Extension team conducted Zoom meetings to provide feedback on business design, profitability and sustainability, supporting participants as they refined their agricultural ventures.\n\nSouthern Nevada Roundtable Network"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nTo increase outreach and determine the types of agricultural activities in southern Nevada, the Herds & Harvest team facilitated and created the Southern Nevada Roundtable Project and hired an outreach specialist to coordinate the marketing of the project. By the end of 2023, the roundtable had broken into six working groups: Policy, Farm Fest/Consumer Education, Food Hub Development, Grant Writing/Education, Farm Networking App and Universal Grow Local Label. \nThe team collaborated with the Nevada Farm Bureau and the Clark County Master Gardener Program to implement the roundtable project to identify the needs of beginner farmers in the region. The team facilitated three sessions in 2024 attended by about 130 participants. \n"}]}

Results

{"ops":[{"insert":"In 2024, nearly 70% of participants successfully completed the Small-Acreage Certification Program, while close to 80% earned certification in the Farm-to-Fork Certification Program. Graduates received a Beginning Farmer & Rancher Level I Certification and were supported by the Herds & Harvest team in developing business plans and cash flow statements for their new agricultural ventures. These small-business owners are poised to strengthen the state’s local food systems.\n\nPost-certification survey responses indicated high satisfaction with the program, with participants rating the speakers, course content and format as “satisfied” to “extremely satisfied.”\n\nWorking groups"},{"attributes":{"header":3},"insert":"\n"},{"insert":"\nAt the Nevada Farm Bureau Convention, the working groups highlighted their 2023 successes and outlined action plans for 2024. Membership in the working groups grew significantly, increasing from 80 to nearly 130 volunteers over the past year. \n"}]}

Public Value Statement

{"ops":[{"insert":"By training new farmers and ranchers in sustainable practices, the Herds & Harvest Program positions Nevada to increase the production of locally grown, nutrient-rich foods, reducing reliance on imports and improving community access to fresh, healthy options. The program also aims to strengthen Nevada’s economy by creating agriculture-related jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting economic growth in both rural and urban areas. With its emphasis on sustainable agriculture, Herds & Harvest promotes long-term environmental stewardship, helping to ensure a resilient food system that benefits current and future generations.\n"}]}

Primary Focus Area

Food Security

Secondary Focus Area

Agricultural Systems

Tags

Primary Funding Source

Other USDA Capacity - Extension

Secondary Funding Source

Integrated (Water Quality, Methyl Bromide Transition, Organic Transition, Crop Protection/Pest Mgt, RRDCs, Food and Ag Defense Initiative)

Urban Impact Statement

Yes

Submission Year

2025

Submitter is Point of Contact

Primary Contact Name

Staci Emm

Primary Contact Email

emms@unr.edu

Integrated Impact Statement

Integrated With

None Selected

Statement Synopsis

This program helps equip new farmers and ranchers with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to establish successful agricultural businesses. With a focus on sustainable practices, participants receive mentorship and training in grazing systems, soil health, water conservation, financial management, risk mitigation, crop diversification and farm planning. The program also fosters a supportive network of farmers to help participants achieve their goals. Regular in-person and virtual training sessions are led by experienced Nevada agriculture producers and Extension professionals. Participants also can attend some of Nevada’s agricultural conferences hosted by Extension, providing valuable exposure and learning experiences.

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