Courses

Building a Profitable Farm Website – Charlotte Smith

This course guides farmers through the essential steps of creating a website that effectively engages customers, builds an email list, and drives sales. By understanding website strategy, customer focus, and content optimization, participants will learn how to transform their farm websites into essential business tools. Important Links: Charlotte Smith’s Website: https://charlottemsmith.com/

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Business, Legal and Tax Implications of Succession Planning | Stock and Leader

This course provides an in-depth look at the essentials of legal farm succession planning, presented by Darlene Livingston and Attorney Jody Leighty. Through real-life insights, explore the best approaches to initiate family discussions, organize assets, and develop a feasible succession plan. The course also covers key legal structures, tax implications, and long-term planning essentials to ensure a seamless and legally sound transition of the family farm to the next generation. Stock and Leader Attorneys at Law Website: https://www.stockandleader.com/

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Three Steps to Your Profitable Farm – Charlotte Smith

Join Charlotte Smith, a seasoned farmer and coach, as she unveils the dual power of effective marketing and mindset management. Dive into the proven strategies that have helped farmers across the globe achieve success and tranquility in their farming businesses. This course is designed to guide you through the essentials of positioning your farm for profitability while maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re struggling with sales, overwhelmed by stress, or seeking to revamp your farming approach, these lessons are your stepping stone to a profitable, serene farm operation. Important Links: Charlotte Smith’s Website: https://charlottemsmith.com/

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Farm Succession & Planning For The Unexpected | OSU Extension

Welcome to the ‘Farm Succession & Planning For The Unexpected’ course presented by David Marrison of OSU Extension. This course delves into the critical process of farm succession planning, combining David Marrison’s extensive expertise with practical, real-world applications. You’ll explore essential strategies for setting your farm’s future goals, identifying heirs, and cultivating future farm leaders. The course addresses complex issues such as adapting organizational structures, navigating life’s unpredictabilities, and mastering crucial family communication. With David’s guidance, gain a deeper understanding of the financial, legal, and interpersonal intricacies of farm succession. Important Links: OSU Extension Website: https://extension.osu.edu/

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Effective Communication on The Farm | Iowa Mediation Service

This comprehensive course, led by Kylie Fleming, Executive Director of Iowa Mediation Service, is designed to enhance understanding and skills in managing stress and improving communication, particularly in high-pressure environments like agriculture. The course covers a range of topics, from identifying and differentiating types of stress to practical strategies for effective communication and problem-solving under stress. Participants will learn to recognize personal and others’ stress responses, develop techniques for de-escalation, and understand the importance of setting boundaries and active listening. This course is ideal for professionals in stressful work environments, individuals involved in agricultural sectors, and anyone looking to improve their communication skills in challenging situations. Important Links:Iowa Mediation Service Website: https://www.iowamediationservice.com/

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Farm Succession: Getting Your Financial House in Order | Farm Credit

Welcome to the ‘Farm Succession: Getting Your Financial House in Order’ course, conducted by Phil Taylor, an experienced Farm Credit Farm Business Consultant with a passion for empowering farmers through education. In this focused online class, Phil guides you through the vital process of preparing for farm succession by establishing a robust financial foundation. Dive into the mechanics of balance sheets, the nuances of income and cash flow statements, and the strategic planning of capital expenditures. With Phil’s expert instruction, you’ll learn how to balance business and personal assets, paving the way for a smooth transition to future generations. Enroll now to take the first step towards securing your farm’s legacy with confidence and clarity. Important Links: Farm Credit Website: https://farmcredit.com/ Social Security Benefits Handout: https://pafarmlink.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Pa-Farm-Link-2023-Farm-Succession-Workshops-Handout-SS-Tables.pdf Farm Finance Scorecard: https://www.cffm.umn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/FarmFinanceScorecard

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Dealing with Stress on the Farm – NY Farm Net

Welcome to the “Dealing with Stress on the Farm” course led by Jennifer Schwytzer. Jennifer is a Family Consultant with Cornell University through New York Farm Net, mental health therapist and women’s life coach who runs her own business, KINDfulness Coaching. Stress is an ever-present challenge, impacting both physical and mental health. From recognizing stressors to understanding how the body responds to stress, this course equips you with valuable insights and practical techniques to maintain well-being. Don’t let stress hold you back; enroll in this course to build resilience and lead a healthier, more balanced life. Important Links: NY Farm Net Website – nyfarmnet.org

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Assistive Technology On The Farm – AgrAbility PA

Welcome to the AgrAbility PA Assistive Technology On The Farm course. In this program, you’ll learn about AgrAbility for Pennsylvania (AgrAbility PA) – a statewide partnership between Penn State Extension and UCP Central PA in support of a project funded through the United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA). We aim to empower farmers and agricultural workers with disabilities or long-term health conditions, helping them live independently and thrive in agriculture. Our services encompass agricultural worksite assessments, tailored recommendations for assistive technology and modifications, educational resources, and more. Explore the world of assistive technology on the farm, discover mobility devices that increase functional capabilities, and overcome barriers in production agriculture. Join us on this empowering journey towards a more inclusive and productive future in Pennsylvania’s agricultural community. Important Links: AgrAbility for Pennsylvania website – AgrAbilityPA.org

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Starting Your Food Business & Other Resources – PSU Extension

Welcome to the Penn State Extension Starting Your Food Business & Other Resources course! In this comprehensive program, we’ll cover food regulation, facility registration, and more. Explore the roles of key food regulatory agencies like USDA/FSIS, FDA, and state/local bodies in ensuring food safety. Learn about meat and poultry slaughter/processing oversight and state-specific guidelines. In the second part, we focus on registration requirements for food facilities, including licensing and serving food/drink to consumers. Discover the Agricultural Alternatives publication for marketing, production, budgeting, and resource requirements. Explore the Small Farm Dream program, covering research, marketing, finance, and risk factors in agriculture. Penn State Extension provides resources to support your agricultural journey and ensure success. Each lesson includes a quiz to reinforce understanding. Join us for a safe and compliant food practices experience with Penn State Extension! Important Links: Penn State Extension Website: extension.psu.eduServSafe (Food Employee Certification) Website: extension.psu.edu/servsafeBurea of Food Safety (PA Dept. of Ag) Website

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Base de datos, sucesión, mentores agrícolas y recursos disponibles – PA Farm Link en español

Bienvenido al curso PA Farm Link, una exploración en profundidad de los servicios y recursos que ofrece PA Farm Link para apoyar a los agricultores en su camino hacia un negocio agrícola exitoso y sostenible. A lo largo de este curso, conocerás a fondo las valiosas herramientas y oportunidades que ofrece PA Farm Link. Desde aprovechar el poder de nuestra base de datos online de vinculación de tierras, hasta conocer nuestros programas, recursos y eventos de facilitación de la sucesión y tutoría, descubrirás cómo nuestra organización puede ayudarte a alcanzar tus objetivos agrícolas. Cada lección va acompañada de un cuestionario para reforzar tu comprensión. ¡Sumerjámonos en el mundo de PA Farm Link!

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Grant Overview & PA Preferred Program – PA Department of Agriculture

Welcome to the PA Department of Agriculture course! In this comprehensive course, we will explore the services and programs provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Throughout the lessons, we will focus on the key topics of grants and the PA Preferred & Homegrown by Heroes programs. Learn about funding opportunities and where to find them on the agriculture.pa.gov website. In the second part of the course, we delve into PA Preferred & Homegrown by Heroes, a statewide branding program that supports PA farmers and makers. Gain insights into the eligibility criteria for PA Preferred & Homegrown by Heroes and the benefits associated with being a member of each association. All three lessons are accompanied by a quiz to reinforce your understanding. Get ready to enhance your understanding of the PA Department of Agriculture and the resources available to support agriculture in Pennsylvania.

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The 4-Ps to Personal Finance – PA Bank & Securities

Welcome to the PA Bank & Securities course! In this comprehensive course, we will delve into the world of banking and securities in Pennsylvania. Throughout the lessons, we will cover essential topics such as budgeting, savings, and investments. Gain insights into how to track your spending effectively and learn about different budgeting tools. In the second part of the course, we will dive into the realm of investments, including investment and retirement account types. Discover the importance of verifying the legitimacy of brokers and their certifications through trusted sources such as www.brokercheck.finra.org. Each lesson is accompanied by a quiz to reinforce your understanding.  Get ready to expand your knowledge and make informed financial decisions in the realm of PA Bank & Securities. Important Links: FTC Budget Worksheet PDF: https://pafarmlink.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/ftc-budget-worksheet.pdfPersonal Spending Log PDF: https://pafarmlink.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Personal-Spending-Log.pdf

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Business Planning & Other Resources – PA SBDC

Welcome to the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center (SBDC) course! In this comprehensive course, designed specifically for farmers and agricultural businesses, we will explore the services and resources provided by the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center. Throughout the lessons, you will gain insights into the vital role of the PA SBDC in supporting small businesses in the farming industry. Learn about the free services offered by the PA SBDC, and the valuable assistance available for business planning, pitching, and grant applications. Each lesson is accompanied by a quiz to reinforce your understanding. Join us on this journey to empower and enhance your small agricultural business success with the Pennsylvania SBDC.

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New Farmers Getting Started with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Welcome to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Course! In this comprehensive course, we will explore the various divisions and programs offered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support farmers and ranchers. Throughout the lessons, you will gain valuable insights into the assistance available for beginning farmers and ranchers, such as the conservation practices provided by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), funding opportunities from Rural Development (RD), and risk management through the Risk Management Agency (RMA). Each lesson is accompanied by a quiz to reinforce your understanding. Let’s dive in and discover the resources and programs that can help you thrive in the agricultural industry.

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Understanding Agricultural Leasing and Leases – PSU Ag Law

Welcome to the Understanding Agricultural Leasing and Leases course, presented by Ross Pifer, Director of the Center for Agricultural and Shale Law at Penn State University. In this course you will gain comprehensive knowledge on the intricacies of agricultural leasing and leases. This course aims to equip learners with the necessary insights to make informed decisions regarding leasing or purchasing agricultural land, negotiate favorable lease agreements, understand lease duration and renewal options, and manage liability as an agricultural lessee. Each lesson includes a quiz to reinforce understanding. Arm yourself with the knowledge to make informed leasing decisions with Penn State Ag Law! Important Links: Penn State Ag Law Website: https://aglaw.psu.edu/

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Database, Succession, Ag Mentors, & Available Resources – PA Farm Link

Welcome to the PA Farm Link course, an in-depth exploration of the services and resources provided by PA Farm Link to support farmers in their journey towards a successful and sustainable farming business. Throughout this course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the valuable tools and opportunities offered by PA Farm Link. From harnessing the power of our online land-linking database, to learning about our succession facilitation and mentorship programs, resources and events, you will discover how our organization can help you achieve your farming goals. Each lesson is accompanied by a quiz to reinforce your understanding. Let’s dive into the world of PA Farm Link!

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