Finding Farmland to Help Farmers Find Affordable Land
While the number of Essex County farms is but a fraction of what it was a century ago, they remain a vital part of the region’s economy supplying local restaurants and distributing seasonal produce, beef and flowers.
For farmers, who are meeting the changes brought by more consumers flocking to farmers’ markets and organic foods, and embracing farm-to-table dining, finding affordable farmland can be a challenge.
On December 3, Greenbelt will host a free workshop for farmers seeking affordable farmland. The Finding Farmland workshop will be led by Michael Parker, Land Access Program Associate with the National Young Farmers Coalition, a national advocacy network of young farmers fighting for the future of agriculture.
Parker helps beginning farmers understand their financial decisions related to accessing land, through Young Farmers' Finding Farmland Calculator as well as in-person and online education projects.
The workshop’s goals are to discuss the costs associated with acquiring farmland, and financing options.
The event will be held at the Bee Building in the Topsfield Fairgrounds, 207 Boston Street, Topsfield, from 5:00pm to 8:30pm, with dinner from 5:00-5:30pm followed by presentation from 5:30-8:30pm.
RSVP required at ecga.org/events or contact Jane Rumrill: jane@ecga.org or 978-768-7241, x 25.