For Immediate Release: Sept. 12, 2011                         
Contact: 202-554-1600

WASHINGTON (Sept. 12, 2011) – National Farmers Union (NFU) Beginning Farmer Institute (BFI) participants are in Washington, D.C., this week to take part in the first session of the institute. Participants will learn financial, marketing, and planning skills.

“It has become increasingly difficult for beginning farmers to succeed in the world of agriculture,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “That is why programs like the BFI are so important, because it gives beginning farmers an opportunity to learn some of the important skills that they will need as farmers and ranchers.”

BFI participants arrived in Washington, D.C., on Saturday for the four-day program. Participants in the institute include Erin Schneider of Wisconsin, Tess Brown-Lavoie of Rhode Island, Jeff and Deb Eschmeyer of Ohio, Aeric and Rex Reilly of Montana, Joseph and Ida DeFrancesco of Connecticut, and Barbara Marty and Justin Fehringer of Colorado.

“Because people are asking us how to get started in farming, we put together this program to help them learn the business of agriculture from seasoned professionals,” said NFU Education Director Maria Miller. “Institute participants will gain a working knowledge of topics including USDA programs, risk management, bookkeeping and how to discuss a business plan with a lender, and lesser-known opportunities to generate farm income and keep production costs in line.”

National Farmers Union has been working since 1902 to protect and enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities through advocating grassroots-driven policy positions adopted by its membership.