Desert Farming Initiative 2025, Grow Organic Nevada Mentorship Program, Desert Farming Initiative, University of Nevada, Reno

Become an organic farming mentor, or find a mentor!

The Grow Organic Nevada program helps Nevada farmers transition to USDA certification through a facilitated mentorship program, connecting experienced certified organic farmers with local farmers who are looking to become certified.

Become a mentor

  • Mentors will be paid $3,000 per year for their role in this effort.
  • To qualify, your farm must be USDA certified organic, or you must have been certified organic and involved in the certification process (OSP, inspections, record-keeping, etc.) for a minimum of three years
  • The Grow Organic Nevada program will connect you with eligible farmers requesting mentorship.
  • Mentors will conduct an on-farm visit with each mentee at the start of mentorship, and thereafter, respond to their questions with practical knowledge and connect mentees to resources to help them succeed.
  • The Grow Organic Nevada team and others will provide mentor training and resources. This includes meeting with the program coordinator at your farm at the start of the program, and virtual training session(s) each year. The team will also provide training to mentees.
  • The Grow Organic Nevada coordinator will work hand in hand with mentors, gather progress updates, and help form regional organic grower groups throughout the state of Nevada. Regional organic grower groups will provide a place to get answers and a sense of community for organic growers and those interested in transitioning to certified organic production.

APPLY TO BECOME A MENTOR 

Request a Mentor

Farms planning to transition to organic certification will:

  • Receive 40 hours of real-time advice and production support from a veteran organic producer through site visits and regular communication.
  • Receive a $500 stipend for participating in the Grow Organic Nevada mentorship program.
  • Connect to valuable, free technical assistance to help with paperwork and compliance.
  • Participate in regional organic-focused community events.

APPLY TO PARTICIPATE AND REQUEST A MENTOR 

If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Rob Holley at rholley@unr.edu

 

Learn more about the author(s)

Tatum Gogna
Tatum Gogna
Jill Moe
Jill Moe
 

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