List of organizations and programs involved in small farm work

Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI)
Description: AURI is a nonprofit corporation that assists entrepreneurs with business planning and with product development research to marketing. They can help farmers who wish to explore the technical feasibility and market potential for value-added products through their Initial Project Assessment and Market Assessment Programs. Financial assistance may be available through matching grants in both programs. There are five regional offices, located in Crookston (also the AURI State Headquarters), Morris, Marshall, St. Paul, and Waseca AURI, PO Box 599, Crookston, MN 56716, (800) 279-5010, fax: (218) 281-3759, website: www.auri.org

Cooperative Development Services (CDS), University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives
Description: CDS is a nonprofit organization that provides professional business development and planning services to cooperatives and communities in the Upper Midwest. Some of the services available are: strategic planning, market analysis, business plans, financial packaging, loan and grant procurement. They have offices in St. Paul, MN and Madison, WI.
Cooperative Development Services, 131 West Wilson St, Suite 400, Madison, WI 53703, (608) 258-4396, fax: (608) 258-4394,
In Saint Paul, Blair Arcade, Suite Y, 400 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55102, (651) 265-3678, fax: (651) 228-1184, e-mail: CDS@co-opdevelopmentservices.com, website: www.cdsus.coop/

Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP)
Description: The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy promotes resilient family farms, rural communities and ecosystems around the world through research and education, science and technology, and advocacy. Programs include: environment & agriculture; food & agriculture; food & health, forestry and trade & agriculture.
IATP, 2105 First Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404, (612) 870-0453, fax: (612) 870-4846, e-mail: iatp@iatp.org, website: www.iatp.org

Minnesota Grown Opportunities (MGO), a collaboration of the Minnesota Dept of Agriculture (MDA), the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, and the University of Minnesota.
Description: This project provides one-stop access to information about diversification opportunities in Minnesota agriculture. MGO was established to assist Minnesota producers in diversifying their farming operation by coordinating state agency support. The website offers information about more than 200 crop and livestock topics or you can submit diversification questions via the website ("Have a Question") or phone. MDA, Minnesota Grown Opportunities, 90 West Plato Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-8916, e-mail: meg.moynihan@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/mgo/

Land Stewardship Project (LSP)
Description: The Land Stewardship Project (LSP) is a non-profit education organization working for the development of a sound stewardship ethic towards the nation's farmland and for public policy changes that will lead to the development of a sustainable agricultural system. The three state offices offer publications, field days, seminars, and workshops about sustainable farming and sustainable community development.
Land Stewardship Project, Twin Cities Area Office, 2200 4th Street, White Bear Lake, MN 55110, (651) 653-0618, fax: (651) 653-0589, e-mail: lspwbl@landstewardshipproject.org, website: www.landstewardshipproject.org;
Southeast Minnesota Office, PO Box 130, 180 East Main Street, Lewiston, MN 55952, (507) 523-3366, fax: (507) 523-2729, e-mail: lspse@landstewardshipproject.org; or
Western Minnesota Office, 103 West Nichols, Montevideo, MN 56265, (320) 269-2105, fax: (320) 269-2190, e-mail: lspwest@landstewardshipproject.org

Programs include:

• Farm Beginnings Program. (This educational and apprenticeship program is available in southeast and western Minnesota. It is designed to provide beginning farmers with a combination of hands-on experience and classroom instruction. The year-long program provides participants with direct contacts to local sustainable farmers. It includes a winter workshop series, hands-on apprenticeships, business planning and alternative marketing assistance. For more information contact Karen Stettler, Land Stewardship Project Southeastern Office, 180 E. Main St., PO Box 130, Lewiston, MN 55952, (507) 523-3366, fax: (507) 523-2729, e-mail: stettler@landstewardshipproject.org ,
  or contact Amy Bacigalupo, Land Stewardship Project Western Office, 103 W Nichols, Montevideo, MN 56265, (320) 269-2105, fax: (320) 269-2190, e-mail: amyb@landstewardshipproject.org, website: www.landstewardshipproject.org/programs_farmbeginnings.html)
• Midwest Food Alliance (The Midwest Food Alliance is an eco-labeling project dedicated to promoting the expanded use of sustainable farming systems with a long-term goal of helping farmers become more economically viable, environmentally sound, and socially responsible. This project proposes a model for a regional food system that will link sustainable farming to sustainable communities through education and marketing. Contact Ray Kirsch, Twin Cities Area Office, (651) 653-0618, e-mail: rkirsch@landstewardshipproject.org, website: www.landstewardshipproject.org/programs_mwfa.html)
• Food and Farm Connection (Maintains lists of sustainably-grown products and of Minnesota area CSAs. Contact Twin Cities Area Office, (651) 653-0618 e-mail: lspwbl@landstewardshipproject.org, website: www.landstewardshipproject.org/foodfarm-main.html)
• On Farm Research (Projects that build relationships between farmers, University researchers, agency representatives and environmentalists while meeting on-the-ground research needs of stewardship farmers. Contact Twin Cities Area Office, (651) 653-0618 e-mail: lspwbl@landstewardshipproject.org, website: www.landstewardshipproject.org/programs_onfarmresearch.html)

Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP)
Description: The purpose of the Minnesota Dept of Agriculture's Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP) is to demonstrate and promote alternative agricultural practices that are energy efficient, environmentally sound, and enhance the self-sufficiency of Minnesota farmers. ESAP sponsors a loan program, demonstration grant program, on-farm research, workshops, and speakers.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP), 90 West Plato Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55107, (651) 296-7673, fax: (651) 297-7678, e-mail: Alison.Fish@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/

Programs include:

• On Farm Research (The Program directs on-farm research efforts in practical farming alternatives. In cooperation with agricultural professionals, researchers and participating farmers, the Program conducts farm-scale research on such topics as the contribution of green manures, livestock manure and compost to soil quality, organic transition methods, non-chemical weed control, and forage species performance. Contact Jean Ciborowski, 90 West Plato Blvd · Saint Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-3217, e-mail: jeanne.ciborowski@state.mn.us)
• Integrated Pest Management (The IPM Program is concerned with developing and implementing state-wide strategies for the increased use of IPM on private and state managed lands. Contact Jeanne Ciborowski, 90 West Plato Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-3217, e-mail: Jeanne.Ciborowski@state.mn.us)
• Organic Agriculture (The MDA recognizes organic as a choice preferred by many farmers and consumers. We offer information, education and assistance in many organic areas, including production methods, transition, certification and marketing. We also enforce truth-in-labeling laws. Contact Meg Moynihan, 90 West Plato Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-8916, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/organic)

Programs include:

• New Immigrant Agricultural Project (The Project works to support new immigrant farmers in small-scale operations, using sustainable production practices. Contact Alvaro Rivera, (651) 766-8895)

State Chapters:
SFA of Cannon River/HiawathaValley, 30468 Canada Ave, Northfield, MN 55057, (507) 663-1153
SFA of North East Minnesota, PO Box 307, Carlton, MN 55718, (715) 635-5250
SFA of Central Minnesota, 3998 67th St SW, Pequot Lakes MN 56472, (218) 568-8624
SFA of Crow River, 208 Oak Ave N, Maple Lake, MN 55358, (963) 963-3690
SFA of Coteau Ridge, 48591 SD Hwy 30, White, SD 57276, (605) 479-3008
SFA of South Central Minnesota, 24076 670th Ave, Alden, MN 56009, (507) 874-3737
SFA of Southeast Minnesota, RR 1 Box 250, Altura, MN 55910, (507) 932-5225
SFA of Western Minnesota, 17734 335th St, Sunburg MN 56289, (320) 278-2000
SFA of Agassiz, Rt. 2 Box 96, Crookston, MN 56716, (218) 281-7875

Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture (MISA), a partnership between the College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota and the Sustainers' Coalition (a group of community non-profit organizations, which includes the Institute for Agricultural and Trade Policy, the Land Stewardship Project, the Minnesota Food Association, the Minnesota Project, and the Minnesota Sustainable Farming Association).
Description: MISA operates a website with current sustainable agriculture information, including a calendar of sustainable agriculture events and announcements, a searchable database of resources, and links to many related sites and resources. They also respond to your individual questions about sustainable agriculture. You can submit questions by email, via the website ("Ask MISA"), by phone, fax or mail.
MISA, 411 Borlaug Hall, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, (612) 625-8235 or (800) 909-MISA (6472), fax: (612) 625-1268, e-mail: misamail@umn.edu, website: www.misa.umn.edu

Programs include:

• Alternative Swine Production Systems Program, Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and the University of Minnesota's Swine Center. This program seeks to provide research and promote low emission and low energy alternative pork production systems that are environmentally friendly, profitable, and that support rural communities.
  Wayne Martin, 385 Animal Science/Vet Med, 1988 Fitch Ave, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, (612) 625-6224 or (877)-ALT-HOGS, e-mail: marti067@tc.umn.edu
• Information Exchange Program
  This program compiles and disseminates information on sustainable agriculture in printed and electronic formats. Works in close cooperation with University of Minnesota Extension Service and the Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program of MDA.
  Beth Nelson, 411 Borlaug Hall, 1991 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 551108, (612) 625-8217, e-mail: schre002@umn.edu
• What's Up in Sustainable Agriculture Seminar Series
  A discussion group bringing the University of Minnesota community together with professionals from the field to explore current topics in sustainable agriculture.
  Courtney Tchida, 411 Borlaug Hall, 1991 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 551108, (612) 625-2738, e-mail: tchi0003@umn.edu
• Sustainable Agriculture Minor
  Agriculture capable of sustaining humankind for generations to come requires practices and policies that balance production with concern for the environment and the well-being of farming families and rural communities. The minor program provides courses and experiences to provide a new generation with an understanding of a sustainable agriculture.
  Courtney Tchida, 411 Borlaug Hall, 1991 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 551108, (612) 625-2738, e-mail: tchi0003@umn.edu
• School of Agriculture Endowed Chair in Agricultural Systems, College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences and MISA.
  The Chair represents a unique opportunity for leaders in the academic, business, farming, government, and non-profit sectors of agriculture, rural development, and related fields to contribute to and help shape the future of rural Minnesota. The Chair is intended to serve as a catalyst for innovation and progress on agricultural and rural issues within the College and Minnesota, and can be filled by individuals or project teams which rotate through the position, serving flexible, varying-length terms as appropriate for their proposed activities.
  Helene Murray, 411 Borlaug Hall, 1991 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 55108 (612) 625-0220, e-mail: murra021@umn.edu, website: www.misa.umn.edu

Programs include:

• Farm Energy/Biogas
  The Minnesota Project works to bring renewable energy projects to farmers that stimulate economic development for farmers and rural communities and result in a net benefit to the environment.
• Whole Farm Planning
  This program provides farmers with the management tools they need to manage biologically complex farming systems in a profitable manner. Farmers set explicit goals for their operation and assess cultural, financial and natural resources. They make decisions on a daily basis that support their goals and monitor their progress toward meeting goals.
• Conservation Security Program
  Provides up-to-date information about the conservation security program, and the implications for sustainable farmers.

Programs include:

• Farm Incubator Program
  This program provides hands on and class room based agricultural training for new immigrant and beginners farmers at the University of Minnesota Outreach, Research and Education Park (UMore Park) in Rosemount. Trainees participate in the education program for three years and allowed to farm one to three acres. They sell their fresh produce at St Paul and Minneapolis Farmers' Market. Graduating trainees are expected to transition from UMore Park facility to parcels of land leased or purchased. Trainees pay fees to enroll in the program.
  Vang Yang, UM Extension Research/Outreach Center, 1605 160th St W, Rosemount, MN 55068, (651) 423-2413, e-mail: yangx182@umn.edu

• North Central Research and Outreach Center at Grand Rapids. Research and outreach are conducted in aspects of agricultural engineering, environmental issues, forestry, by-product utilization, small fruit and vegetable crops, tourism and travel, and wild rice. NCROC, 1861 E Hwy 169, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, (218) 327-4490, fax: (218) 327-4126, website: ncroc.coafes.umn.edu
• Northwest Research and Outreach Center at Crookston. Research and outreach focus on the production of wheat, flax, sunflower, sugar beet, potato and dry edible beans, as well as the production of specialty crops, including annual canary grass, buckwheat, mustard, canola, bluegrass and timothy seed, and on cow/calf, ewe/lamb operations. Research is also conducted on value-added processing of current agricultural products, introduction and culture of new crops or livestock species, and prairie management systems. NWROC, 2900 University Ave, Crookston, MN 56716, (218)-281-8602, website: www.nwroc.umn.edu
• Rosemount Research and Outreach Center at Rosemount. Research programs focus on precision agricultural methods, carbon sequestration, and biological methods for potato pest control. Scientists also investigate strategies for weed management on a variety of crops and maintain ongoing research on swine and poultry. The location also hosts a new immigrant agricultural program. RROC, 1605-160th St West, Rosemount, MN 55068, (651) 423-2455, fax: (651) 423-1491, website: rroc.coafes.umn.edu
• Southern Research and Outreach Center at Waseca. Environmental management research projects include integrated investigations related to groundwater and surface water quality factors. Research programs in swine and dairy production emphasize waste management and odor reduction. Researchers also work on production and technology development for major agronomic crops grown in the region and vegetable crops grown both for processing and fresh markets. SROC, 35838 120th St, Waseca, MN 56093-4521, (507) 835-3620, fax: (507) 835-3622 · website: sroc.coafes.umn.edu/index.html
• Southwest Research and Outreach Center at Lamberton. Research is directed toward improving environmental quality with focuses on nitrogen management and water quality, organic management systems and pest management research. SWROC, PO Box 428, Lamberton, MN 56152, (507) 752-7372, fax: (507) 752-7374 · website: swroc.coafes.umn.edu/
• West Central Research and Outreach Center at Morris. Research and education is focused on environmental management of crop and livestock agricultural systems, swine production systems, and forage-based livestock systems. WCROC, 46352 State Hwy 329, Morris, MN 56267, (320) 589-1711, fax: (320) 589-4870, website: wcroc.coafes.umn.edu/

Agriculture Best Management Practices Loan Program (AgBMP) Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
This program provides low interest financing to farmers, rural landowners, and agriculture supply businesses to encourage agricultural best management practices that reduce water pollution. Funds are available for most counties and can be used with state and federal cost share or other funding sources. Potential borrowers should contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District, county environmental office, or local water planning officials for more information about loan availability in their county. Dwight Wilcox, AgBMP, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 90 W Plato Blvd · St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 215-1018, e-mail: dwight.wilcox@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/agbmp/moreinfo.html

Initial Project Assessment and Market Assessment Programs, Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI)
Financial assistance may be available through matching grants to explore the technical feasibility and market potential for new or value-added product . There are five regional offices, located in Crookston (also the AURI State Headquarters), Morris, Marshall, St Paul, and Waseca.
AURI, PO Box 599, Crookston, MN 56716, (800) 279-5010, fax: (218) 281-3759, website: www.auri.org

Minnesota Indian Economic Development Fund
The Minnesota Indian Economic Development Fund (MIEDF) provides financial services designed to help Native Americans in Minnesota obtain loans and financial technical assistance. MIEDF is a nonprofit organization created through partnership between American Indian leaders and McKnight Foundation.
Mike Moore, MIEDF, 2380 Wycliff St, Suite 200, St Paul, MN 55114, (651) 917-0819, fax: (651) 641-0028, e-mail: exdirmiedf@altavista.com

National Farm Service Agency (FSA) American Indian Credit Outreach Initiative
The National FSA American Indian Credit Outreach Initiative is a cooperative agreement between the USDA-FSA and the National Tribal development Association. The credit outreach initiative helps American Indians farmers and ranchers in Minnesota gain access to FSA loan packages.
Irene Danz, Outreach Liaison, 4390 Midway Rd, Duluth, MN 55811-1313 · (office): (218) 729-6527, (cell): (218) 310-7293, e-mail: irene@indiancreditoutreach.com, website: www.indiancreditoutreach.com

Organic Certification Cost Share Program, Sustainable Agriculture Program, Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Provides payments of 75% (up to a maximum of $500) for Minnesota organic growers and handler/processors certified by a National Organic Program-accredited certifier.
Meg Moynihan, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-8916, e-mail: meg.moynihan@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/organic

Rural Finance Authority (RFA)
The Rural Finance Authority is part of the Agricultural Finance Division of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. This division makes loans available to help Minnesota farmers and agribusiness. The RFA offers a variety of loan programs including: Beginning Farmer and Seller Assisted to help new farmers purchase agricultural land; Aggie Bond for agricultural land, agricultural improvements, breeding livestock, and machinery; Livestock Expansion for state-of-the-art improvements in livestock production; Agricultural Improvement for any farm related purpose; Restructured Loans to help farmers reorganize their debt; and Value-Added Stock Loan for those who want to buy stock in an agricultural processing facility.
Rural Finance Authority, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Finance Division, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-3557, fax: (651) 296-9388, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/AgFinance/default.htm

Shared Savings Loan Program, Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP), Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
A $1 million revolving fund provides loans to farmers to support the transition to sustainable practices. Loans of up to $25,000 per farmer at a 6% interest rate enable farmers to purchase equipment, breeding livestock, or make other improvements to enhance profitability and the environment. Applications accepted year-round and reviewed by a loan review panel on a continuous basis.
Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP), 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 296-7673, fax: (651) 297-7678, e-mail: Alison.Fish@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/default.htm

State Cost-Share Program, Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD).
Funds are available to install soil and water conservation projects that control nutrient runoff, reduce soil erosion, and protect surface water and groundwater quality. Up to 75% of the cost of the project may be covered. Funds are distributed by your county SWCD. Your SWCD can also provide you with technical assistance. They work one-on-one with private landowners, conducting on-site investigations, and helping landowners determine the best practice for that situation. To get contact info for the SWCD in your county, check in the telephone white pages under US Government, Dept of Ag, USDA Service centers.
Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, 790 Cleveland Ave S, Suite 216, (651) 690-9028, fax: (651) 690-9065, website: www.maswcd.org/

Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant Program, Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP), Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
The Demonstration Grant Program provides funds for farmers, agricultural researchers, educators and non-profit groups to explore innovative and creative ways to enhance the sustainability of a wide range of farming systems. Grants of up to $25,000 are awarded on a competitive basis for up to three year demonstration projects. Projects have demonstrated management intensive grazing, diversified cropping systems, soil fertility and manure management, alternative weed management, low-capital beginning farmer strategies, marketing and specialty crop opportunities.
Jeanne Ciborowski, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-3217, e-mail: Jeanne.Ciborowski@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us

Websites

VegEdge, National Integrated Pest Management Network and the University of Minnesota Extension Service.
Information is provided as an aid to assist growers, processors, and crop consultants in making IPM decisions. The site includes insect pest fact sheets, a searchable database, and links to various IPM projects throughout the Midwest. It also provides links to several IPM newsletters. Only available on-line:
www.vegedge.umn.edu/

Center for Farm Financial Management
CFFM develops educational tools to assist farmers, agricultural lenders, and educators to apply the principles and concepts of farm planning, financing and analysis. website:
www.cffm.umn.edu

Center for Integrated Natural Resources and Agricultural Management
CINRAM is a partner-based organization that catalyzes the development and adoption of integrated land use systems.
www.cnr.umn.edu/FR/CINRAM/home/index.htm

Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships
The Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships work to sustain Minnesota's natural resource-based communities and industries by addressing community-identified agriculture, natural resources, and tourism issues in partnership with the University of Minnesota. website:
www.regionalpartnerships.umn.edu

Publications

General Business Planning:

FINPACK Business Plan, 2001,Center for Farm Financial Management, University of Minnesota -- This software tool helps develop comprehensive business plans using supporting FINPACK financial data output. It includes a comprehensive outline, sample plans, and detailed tips on what to include in your business plan.
CFFM, University of Minnesota, 130 Classroom Office Bldg, 1994 Buford Ave, St Paul, MN 55108, 800-234-1111, fax: (612) 625-3105, e-mail: cffm@cffm.agecon.umn.edu, website: www.cffm.umn.edu

A Guide to Starting a Business in Minnesota, 2003 (updated annually), Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development -- This reference book contains a discussion of many of the major issues faced by someone planning to start a new business in Minnesota. Topics include: choosing a form of organization; business name filing information; business licenses and permits; business plans; financing; issues for employers; an orientation to business taxes; small business resources, and others.
Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development, Attn: Small Business Assistance Office, 500 Metro Square, 121 E 7th Place, St Paul, MN 55101, (651) 296-3871 or (800) 657-3858, fax: (651) 296-1290, e-mail: dted@state.mn.us, website: www.dted.state.mn.us

Building a Sustainable Business: A Guide to Developing a Business Plan for Farms and Rural Businesses, Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture -- This guide with worksheets steps you through the major tasks of creating a farm business plan-identifying your values, reviewing your history and current situation, creating a vision, mission, and goals for your enterprise, developing a strategic plan, and implementing the plan (monitoring progress). This guide includes excerpts from the business plans of farmers who have implemented sustainable farm enterprises.
MISA, 411 Borlaug Hall, 1991 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 55108, (612) 625-8235 or (800) 909-6472, fax: (612) 625-1268, e-mail: misamail@umn.edu website: www.misa.umn.edu/publications/bizplan.html

How to Establish Goals: A Group Project for Farmers and their Families, The Minnesota Project -- This is a hands-on workbook that explains the importance of setting goals and lays out a process for setting them. The workbook will help you create goals that will guide and motivate you to produce a successful whole farm plan for your farm.
The Minnesota Project, 1885 University Ave West, Suite 315, St Paul, MN 55104, (651) 645-6159, fax: (651) 645-1262, e-mail: mnproject@mnproject.org website: www.mnproject.org/pdf/wfpbook2.PDF

Starting a Food Business in Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Agriculture -- This publication helps food business owners understand the regulatory requirements applicable to their food-related business in order to produce and distribute safe, quality products. It identifies the various state agencies and units of local government responsible for regulation; provides helpful checklist focusing on regulations, skills assessment and business planning; and addresses specific license and permit requirements, inspections, local regulation, tax considerations and issues for employers.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Dairy and Food Inspection Division, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 296-2627, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/dairyfood/startingfoodbiz.pdf

Whole Farm Planning: Combining Family, Profit, and Environment -- Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and the University of Minnesota Extension Service. This publication provides a definition of whole farm planning and outlines the four steps in whole farm planning and how to do them. It also describes whole farm planning tools, where to find them, and how they differ from regular farm planning tools.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, University of Minnesota, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/businessmanagement/DF6985.html

Marketing:

Collaborative Marketing: A Roadmap and Resource Guide for Farmers -- This publication outlines the steps for organizing a group of farmers into a collaborative marketing effort and includes an extensive resource list of organizations and publications. It also profiles ten collaborative marketing groups in Minnesota.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/businessmanagement/components/7539_toc.html

Direct Marketing Resource Notebook -- The Direct Marketing Resource Notebook contains a wealth of direct marketing information including strategies like farmers markets, cooperatives, and CSA's. It also gives numerous examples of farmers who raise and direct market produce, beef, poultry, and other products. In addition, the publication provides information contacts for state and federal marketing regulations in 12 Midwestern states, including Minnesota, and contains a good resource listing of additional materials and organizations.
Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society, PO Box 736, Hartington, NE 68739, (402) 254-2289, fax: (402) 254-6891, e-mail: crisc@navix.net, website: www.netins.net/showcase/nsas/index.html

Human Resources:

Farm Labor Laws and Regulations in Minnesota -- This resource provides a summary of laws that apply to Minnesota farm workers designed to provide farm employers and those providing services to farm employers and workers with brief, updated information on current laws and regulations pertaining to farm labor in Minnesota. Topics covered in the summary include (a) employment regulations, including differences between employees and independent contractors; (b) human rights provisions; (c) wage rates, payments (including piece rate payments), records, and statements; (d) unemployment insurance; (e) income and social security taxes; (f) worker safety provisions and workers compensation insurance; (g) youth employment provisions; (h) federal migrant worker provisions; (I) field sanitation standards. It provides access to further information through a list of contacts with phone numbers at each of the agencies.
Website: www.extension.umn.edu/specializations/businessmanagement/DF6528.pdf

Hiring Farm Work -- This publication presents four critical steps in the hiring process.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extenstion.umn.edu, or website: www.extension.umn.edu/info-u/finances/BF977.html

Farmworker Pesticide Safety Training Resources: An Annotated Bibliography of Bilingual (English/Spanish) Resources for Trainers of Farmworkers Under the Worker Protection Standard
IATP, 2105 First Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404, 612-870-3416, e-mail: iatp@iatp.org, website: http://www.iatp.org/labels/library/admin/uploadedfiles/Farmworker_Pesticide_Safety_Trai ning_Resources.pdf

Finances:

FINPACK, updated annually, Center for Farm Financial Management. FINPACK is a widely used software program that helps farmers evaluate their financial situation, explore financial outcomes of management alternatives, and make informed decisions about the future direction of their farms. It is not a record keeping system; it uses existing records to improve the financial management of a farm. FINPACK allows farmers to develop balance sheets, long range financial plans, cash flow plans, and year-end analysis. Typically, farmers use FINPACK with the assistance of financial advisors or take an orientation workshop to learn how to use it themselves.
Center for Farm Financial Management, Department of Applied Economics, University of Minnesota, 249 Classroom Office Bldg, 1994 Buford Ave, St Paul, MN 55108, (612) 625-1964 or (800) 234-1111, e-mail: support@cffm.agecon.umn.edu, website: www.cffm.umn.edu/Software/FINPACK

Production:

A Bountiful Harvest: Minnesota Fruit and Vegetable Growers Manage Pests -- This publication contains stories about 15 Minnesota fruit and vegetable growers who use integrated pest management or organic production techniques in their operations.
IPM Program, MDA, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-3217, e-mail: jeanne.ciborowski@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/ipm/FandVIPM.html#veg

Alternative Field Crops Manual -- This spiral bound publication provides information on the production of nearly 50 minor or new field crops, some of which may be considered alternatives to traditional farm crops. It summarizes each crop in terms of soils, climate, varieties, pest and disease, yields, equipment, market, utilization, production, potential, and related resources.
Minnesota Grown Opportunities, MDA, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-8916, email: meg.moynihan@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/mgo/

Discovering Profits in Unlikely Places: Agroforestry Opportunities for Added Income -- This publication discusses the potential of agroforesty practices around the farm, the various types of trees, shubs, and herbs used, and how to get started. It also includes a list of other resources.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/naturalresources/DD7407.html

2003 Directory of CSA Farms, updated annually -- This publication provides a listing of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farms in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. Although it is not an internship directory, it is a good listing of farms that beginning farmers can use as a resource to seek advice, connections, and possible internships or other work experience.
Land Stewardship Project, 2200 Fourth St, White Bear Lake, MN 55110, (651) 653-0618, fax: (651) 653-0589, e-mail: bdevore@landstewardshipproject.org, website: landstewardshipproject.org/csa.html

Fertilizing Crop Land with Beef Manure -- This bulletin is written for beef producers and provides agronomic information with which to optimize beef manure use. It covers manure sampling, developing spreading plans, equipment calibration, and the logistics of manure application.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website:
www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/DC5882.html

Also in same series:

Grazing Systems Planning Guide -- This publication acts as a step-by-step planning guide to starting a grazing operation. It offers information on paddock design and layout, fences, water systems, forages, soil fertility management, brush and weed control, and monitoring. It also includes an example and other references.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/livestocksystems/components/DI7606.pdf

Greenbook -- The Greenbook summarizes the project results of farmers, researchers, and educators who received ESAP demonstration grants to implement and test new and innovative farm production ideas. It provides a great way to see what farming alternatives are being tried out on the landscape throughout Minnesota, and to contact the people who are using those practices.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture-ESAP, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 296-7673, fax: (651) 297-7678, e-mail: Alison.Fish@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/greenbook.html

Hogs Your Way: Choosing a Hog Production System in the Upper Midwest -- This guide helps you define your goals and choose the hog production system best suited to your resources, goals, and values. It discusses conventional and alternative hog production methods, including Swedish deep bedding, pasture-based, and confinement. The publication also profiles farmers using these systems and lists additional resources.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/livestocksystems/DI7641.html

Manure Management Alternatives: A Supplemental Manual -- This publication is geared towards livestock producers and offers information on six technologies/systems for dealing with manure: composting, vegetative filter strips, mechanical seperation, anaerobic digestion, gasification, and odor control. It also includes a glossary.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 296-3820, e-mail: Matt.Drewitz@state.mn.us, website: http://www.mda.state.mn.us/fmmac/default.htm#links

Manure Management in Minnesota -- This bulletin outlines manure characteristics, application factors, use, and crops. It includes a worksheet to aid in analyzing nutrients for crop use.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/DC3553.html

Minnesota Grown Opportunities (MGO) Pamphlets -- This series of pamphlets describes the history, use, environmental requirements, cultural practices, and production economics/markets for each specified crop. The pamphlets also answer frequently asked questions and provide information specific to diversification. Additional pamphlets may be available in the future. The series includes: Bison; Buckwheat; Cranberry; Chicory; Echinacea; Field Pea; Flax; Hybrid Poplar; Industrial Hemp; Meat Goat; Mint
Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 90 W Plato Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107, (651) 297-8916, e-mail: meg.moynihan@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/mgo/publication

Nutrient Management for Commercial Fruit and Vegetable Crops in Minnesota -- This book offers a concise and comprehensive look at nutrient requirements for most fruit and vegetable crops.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/DC5886.html

Pasture for Profit: A Guide to Rotational Grazing -- This publication is a good overall introduction to rotational grazing. It includes information on pasture basics, setting grazing management goals, setting up a rotational grazing system, and possible problems. It also gives examples of three Wisconsin grazing farms-dairy, sheep, and beef. A short glossary of terms and an additional resources list is included at the end.
University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension Publications, 45 N Charter Street, Madison, WI 53715, (608) 262-3346 or toll free (877) 947-7827

Sustainable Agriculture Resource and Information Directory -- This is a very thorough guide to sustainable agricultural organizations, publications, audio tapes, videotapes, websites, and other resources. It includes organizations in Minnesota and beyond.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture, ESAP, 90 W Plato Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55107, (651) 296-7673, fax: (651) 297-7678, e-mail: Alison.Fish@state.mn.us, website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/esapdirectory.pdf

Simple and Successful Vegetable Farming -- This educational package presents the fundamentals of vegetable farming management in clear simple English. Four publications are included with a video, each of which can also be ordered separately: How to Pick, Store and Sell the Vegetables You Grow (#7619); How to Keep Your Soil Healthy (#7620); How to Protect Your Crops from Pests: IPM (#7617); How to Sell Your Crops: Markets (#7618). These will be helpful to any farmer needing basic information about vegetable farming, but especially helpful for immigrant farmers with minimal English literacy. These educational packets are also available in Hmong (#EP-7475) and Spanish (#7474).
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG7616.html

Soil Management Series -- This 5-volume set is designed to help farmers maximize soil health and productivity and offers advice on how to make the best use of recommendations for soil management provided by extension services and other advisors. The titles of the five volumes are: soil management, compaction, manure management, organic matter management, and soil biology and soil management.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/DC7398.html

Financial Assistance:

2001-2003 Financial Assistance Directory -- This publication provides summary- level information on all of the Department of Natural Resources' many financial assistance programs. They include grants, financial incentives, tax exemptions, and other programs for practices related to fish and wildlife, forestry, land protection, recreation, and water.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Office of Management and Budget Services, 500 Lafayette Rd, St Paul, MN 55155-4040, (651) 296-6157 or (888) MINN-DNR, TDD (651) 296-5484 or (800) 657-3929, website: www.dnr.state.mn.us/fad/index.html

Financial Help for Beginning Minnesota Farmers -- This publication discusses financial help options available for beginning Minnesota farmers, including parental financing, bank or FmHA financing, and state government financing. This publication is no. 13 in the Transferring the Farm Series.
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/businessmanagement/DF6314.html

Financing the Farm Operation -- This publication presents several fundamental models that should be considered when assessing financing options for any farming operation. It provides good general information and descriptions of the available options for beginning farmers. It is part of a 15-part series entitled "Farm Legal Service" (Publication no. PC-7291).
University of Minnesota Extension Service Distribution Center, 405 Coffey Hall, 1420 Eckles Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6069, (612) 624-4900 or (800) 876-8636, fax: (612) 625-6281, e-mail: order@extension.umn.edu, or website: www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/businessmanagement/DF2589.html

Newsletters
[See part (1) for contact information for organizations.]

Ag Innovation News, AURI - www.auri.org/news/aginnews.htm

Alternative Swine Systems Newsletter, Wayne Martin, quarterly newsletter, MISA - www.misa.umn.edu

Cornerpost, Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota - www.sfa-mn.org/pages/cpost.html

The Land Stewardship Letter, Land Stewardship Project - www.landstewardshipproject.org/news-lsl.html

Living on a Few Acres, Bob Olson (editor), quarterly newsletter, University of Minnesota Extension Service -- This newsletter is designed for small landowners who may or may not be earning a living from their land. It addresses weed control, maintaining a pasture for horses, forestry, wildlife, water quality, gardening, income alternatives, and resources available.
University of Minnesota Extension Service, Washington County, 1825 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater, MN 55082, (651) 430-6800, e-mail: washington@extension.umn.edu, website: www.extension.umn.edu/county/washington/

Minnesota Vegetable IPM Newsletter -- This newsletter provides vegetable crop IPM information, including the most current pest activity data, chemical and non-chemical control options, and University of Minnesota research summaries on a variety of topics.
Website: vegedge.umn.edu/mnvegnew/mnindex.htm

Minnesota Apple and Strawberry Reports -- This is a weekly newsletter published during the growing season (May-September), and monthly during the off-season (October-April). It uses the data collected from cooperating apple and strawberry fields to report on pest pressure, thresholds, and control options. It also periodically features articles on fruit production, biology, and management of key fruit pests and diseases.
Website: www.mda.state.mn.us/biocon/fruitreports/default.htm

Sustainable Agriculture Newsletter -- www.misa.umn.edu/sanews/

Whole Farm Planner -- The Minnesota Project, published several times annually.
www.mnproject.org/wfp/index_page0002.htm

Regular events (annual workshops, field days, tours, etc.)

Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program (ESAP) Field Days, Minnesota Department of Agriculture -- Farmers and researchers that received Sustainable On-Farm demonstration grants hold various field days and tours throughout greater Minnesota during the spring, summer, and fall. ESAP website: www.mda.state.mn.us/esap/ or contact Mary Hanks: (651) 296-1277

Food & Farm Festival -- The Land Stewardship Project co-sponsors the Community Food and Farm Festival each spring with the Minnesota Food Association It lets farmers and consumers to meet face-to-face, providing consumers opportunities to enroll in CSA's, get more information about local farmers' markets or direct marketing, enabling them to support local food systems. Held in conjunction with the Living Green Expo.

Harvest Festival, Sustainable Farming Association of Northeast Minnesota -- Held annually in Duluth in September. It features family-friendly activities, displays and demonstrations about sustainable agriculture and local food.

Land Stewardship Project Local Foods Banquet, Land Stewardship Project -- Held annually to showcase local food.

Living Green Expo -- This is an annual two-day event (April/May) coordinated by numerous state and local agencies, environmental groups, food organizations. It promotes living to lessen the impact on the environment. Held on the Minnesota state fair grounds in the Twin Cities, last year it was attended by over 10,000 people.

Minnesota Organic and Grazing Conference, Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Program, MDA -- This event is held annually in January. There are diverse workshops and seminars on topics related to diversified production, including grazing and organics.

Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota Annual Meeting -- This is an annual gathering of sustainable farmers and the people who work with them from around the state. It features a keynote speaker and breakout sessions on pertinent topics.

Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota Field Days -- Chapters hold various demonstration field days and workshops throughout the year. On calendar at http://www.sfa-mn.org

Other Small Farm Resources

Minnesota Farm Connection
Description: The Minnesota Farm Connection links landowner/retiring farmers to potential farm buyers and compatible farm workers. Provides information on a variety of loan programs. In addition, it provides education and training customized to a particular farming operation for beginning farmers.
Vicky McNeil, MN Farm Connection, 1593 11th Ave, Granite Falls, MN 56241, (320) 564-4511 or (800) 657-3247, e-mail: vmceneil@gf.mnwest.mnscu.edu

Agricultural Education Programs, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.
Description: This program offers many two- and four- year programs for specific areas of interest. To find a program in your area, try searching on www.mnscu.edu/Student/FindAProgram.html, or contact MnSCU , 500 World Trade Center , 30 East 7th St, St Paul, MN 55101, 1-888-MnSCU-4-U (1-888-667-2848) or (651) 296-8012 , e-mail: darla.senn@so.mnscu.edu. As an example, Ridgewater College in Willmar and Hutchinson offers a two-year Farm Operation and Management program with an opportunity to specialize in several fields, including dairy, crop, or poultry. www.ridgewater.mnscu.edu/courses/technical/farm_oper.html

Farm Business Management Education Programs, MN State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU)
Description: Farm Business Management Education Programs are designed to provide education to farm owners and operators or people interested in farming. The purpose of the program is to assist students in meeting their business and personal goals. The program stresses quality record keeping and sound business decision- making. Instruction is delivered in a number of ways, including individual meetings, traditional classroom settings, small group meetings, field trips, and tours.
John Murray, State Director for Farm and Small Business Management Program, Rochester Community and Technical College, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904, (507) 280-3109, fax: (507) 280-3168, e-mail: john.murray@roch.edu, website: www.mgt.org

Gale Woods Farm/Park
Description: The 410-acre park features an educational farm where students and the public can learn about modern farming practices through hands-on scheduled programs. It is a metro area park, and provides unique opportunities for children and adults to enjoy experiences that enhance their understanding of agriculture, food production and land stewardship. Seasonal farm activities are the basis for programs and school visits. It discusses the benefits of small-scale diversified farming systems.
Gale Woods Farm, 7210 County Road 110 W, Minnetrista, MN 55364 , (952) 472-9203, e-mail: lbardo@threeriversparkdistrict.org, website: www.threeriversparkdistrict.org/parks/galewoods.cfm

National Farm Service Agency (FSA) American Indian Credit Outreach Initiative
Description: The National FSA American Indian Credit Outreach Initiative is a cooperative agreement between the USDA-FSA and the National Tribal development Association. The credit outreach initiative helps American Indians farmers and ranchers in Minnesota gain access to FSA loan packages.
Irene Danz, Outreach Liaison, 4390 Midway Rd, Duluth, MN 55811-1313, phone (office): (218) 729-6527, phone (cell): (218) 310-7293, e-mail: irene@indiancreditoutreach.com, website: www.indiancreditoutreach.com

Native American Business Development Center
Description: The Native American Business Development Center (NABDC) is committed to the development of successful minority owned businesses by providing quality management and technical assistance designed to meet the needs of exciting and potential minority businesses in Minnesota.
NABDC, Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, PO Box 217, Cass Lake, MN 56633, (218) 335-8583, fax: (218) 335-6925, e-mail: mcteda@paulbunyan.net, website: www.nabdcmn.org

Renewing the Countryside - Minnesota -- Renewing the Countryside features stories and photos of forty-three individuals, families, and communities in Minnesota who are putting their landscapes to work. These people are generating wealth in their communities by generating personal income, improving their quality of life, and enhancing the state's natural and cultural resources.
Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, 2105 1st Ave S, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404, (612) 870-3400, fax: (612) 870-4846, e-mail: rtc@iatp.org, website: www.mncountryside.org

Sirolli Agricultural Entrepreneurship Workshops, Sirolli Institute -- The Sirolli Institute is a nonprofit corporation that conducts seminars and short courses on "enterprise facilitation," a management coaching system that supports entrepreneurs within a community. The Land Stewardship Project has coordinated several workshops. For more information about the program, visit the website: http://www.sirolli.com.
Terry Van Der Pol, (320) 269-2105, e-mail: tlvdp@landstewardshipproject.org