This program will be a hybrid model of education utilizing Zoom and personal connections in Nevada agriculture. The field trip will be mandatory in order to receive your Level 1 certification. Each online course will be up to 2 hours long with breaks. The course outline is below:
March 15, 2023, 6 to 8 p.m. Course 1 via Zoom: Overview of small acreage production including identifying your resources, understanding your jurisdictions, and setting your goals.
March 22, 2023, 6 to 8 p.m. Course 2 via Zoom: Understanding crops and soil will focus on plant needs and considerations in determining the best plants for your land space. This will include an overview of water, how plants grow, nutrients and day length requirements, different crop requirements, and soil basics.
March 29, 2023, 6 to 8 p.m. Course 3 via Zoom: Understanding livestock production will focus on livestock needs and requirements to include the Quality Assurance Program, animal health considerations, and meat vs other animal products (eggs, wool, dairy, and bees, honey, and wax).
April 5, 2023 6 to 8 p.m. Course 4 via Zoom: Investigate the different small acreage markets from specialty crops to hay and livestock, and how to market your products. Options that will be discussed include farmstands, direct market, sale yards, the NV Grow Program, social media, and USDA vs. Custom Exempt.
April 12, 2023, 6 to 8 p.m. Course 5 via Zoom: Farm Financial Management in the Twenty-First Century will focus on financially building your farm, building business skills and assets, estate planning, and balance and cash flow basics. UNR students will provide financial analysis of different agricultural ventures.
Dates To Be Announced Upon Registration Field Trip in Person: Tour small acreage farms and ranches – tour stop focus will depend on attendee interest and location– in person. ** Must attend a tour and a Business Plan Review to receive a completion certificate.