Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets Curious about USDA funding but not sure where to begin? UVM Extension is hosting a series of in‑person events across Vermont to help farmers navigate USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs. Mark your calendar for the session nearest you in March or early April.
At each event, participants will hear directly from a farmer and their NRCS Conservation Planner, connect with FSA staff, and receive hands‑on support completing the paperwork needed to become eligible for funding.
These workshops are free, but registration is required. Lunch is provided. When registering, please select one location.
Event Dates and Locations:
- Brattleboro: March 5, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
- Saint Albans: March 7, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
- Morrisville: March 9, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
- Middlebury: March 17, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
- St. Johnsbury: March 24, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
- Williston: April 2, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Questions before the event? Contact Rachel Stievater at [email protected].
Land Together Learning Network
Are you interested in farming collaboratively, but want to be truly ready to seek, hold, and share land as opportunities arise? The NOFA-VT Land Together Learning Network is a new cohort designed for individuals and groups who want to collectively, collaboratively, or cooperatively steward land for agrarian projects.
Rather than focusing on securing land right away, this learning network supports participants in building the foundational pieces—shared values, governance and decision-making structures, business and legal models, and strong relationships—so you’re ready to move when the right opportunity arises.
Apply by February 20
Join University of Vermont Extension specialists on March 5 for a free workshop in Middlebury focused on practical strategies to advance dairy sustainability in the Northeast. Lunch and ice cream are included.
Workshop sessions will explore sustainable herd genetics, precision agriculture tools that improve cropping efficiency and protect water quality, insights from the Ben & Jerry’s Low Carbon Dairy Pilot Program, and the use of enterprise analysis for forage decisions. The event concludes with a farmer panel on low‑carbon dairy practices, designed for farmers, advisors, and agricultural service providers.
Register now
Working Lands Enterprise Initiative Impact Report
The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative (WLEI) just released its annual impact report, providing a look at the impacts achieved in 2025. Along with the report, the program is celebrating thirteen years of impacts. Since being created by the Vermont legislature in 2012, WLEI has directly invested $19.5 million in 593 farm, food, and forestry projects and leveraged an additional $31.9 million in matching funds.
Read the report
Planning for Maple Open House Weekend
Maple Open House Weekend is March 21–22, and it’s a great opportunity to welcome visitors to your sugarhouse and connect with new customers. Each spring, the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers’ Association invites participating producers across the state to open their doors and share the maple experience with the public. This month on the agritourism blog we highlight practical tips to help you host a successful Maple Open House.
Read the blog
Upcoming Dates & Deadlines
February
2/19 - Local Food in Schools and Child Care Food Hub Grant application due
March
3/1 - The Big E Vendor application due
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Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
116 State St. Montpelier, VT 05620
https://agriculture.vermont.gov
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