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Farmers require ongoing education to stay aware of fast-moving developments in technology, science, business management, and an array of other skills and fields that affect agricultural operations. NIFA initiatives increase farmers’ knowledge in these areas and help them adopt practices that are profitable, environmentally sound, and contribute to quality of life.

Importance of Farmer Education

Farmers — beginning and experienced — are critical to creating rural prosperity in the United States. However, farmers face unique challenges and require education and training to ensure their success.

Training helps farmers to incorporate the latest scientific advances and technology tools into their daily operations. The results of enhancing their operations with these tools increases efficiency and can also lead to:

  • Less harm to the environment
  • Reduced food contamination
  • Reduction of the need for water and chemicals for crops
  • Increased profits

NIFA’s Impact

NIFA supports programs and projects that help experienced and new farmers:

  • Make sound financial management decisions and discover new economic opportunities
  • Apply scientific knowledge to enhance stewardship of the land, water, and ecosystems
  • Understand the implications of public policy on their operations
  • Use new tools and technologies to enhance operations and increase profit
  • Apply scientific discoveries to improve production and marketing methods

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