Farms and farmers are the foundation of the appalachian agricultural and food economy but an aging farmer population, losses in both farm numbers and farmland acreage, and shifting climate patterns…

Farms and farmers are the foundation of the appalachian agricultural and food economy but an aging farmer population, losses in both farm numbers and farmland acreage, and shifting climate patterns threaten a way of life and source of revenue in the seven western north carolina counties targeted by this project. Through its incubator farm program (psif), the patterson school foundation (PSF), located in caldwell county, NC, will address these challenges by providing the 1,689 new or beginning farmers and ranchers in these counties with opportunities to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to successfully and sustainably manage their agricultural operations. The patterson school operated from 1909-1994, educating mountain youth on agriculture and industry. This project will advance the efforts of PSF to restore the patterson school as a center of agricultural education to meet the challenges of the 21ST century.during the one-year performance period for the simplified standard grant, psif will host a series of workshops on topics including climate smart, sustainable agriculture, soil regeneration, environmental stewardship, agroforestry, and the use of alternative energy and heating sources. These sustainable practices can enhance the fiscal, environmental and communal success of beginning farmers and ranchers. Project activities will fosternetworking to build community among new or beginning producers and connect them with regional resources.