AMES, Iowa — Practical Farmers of Iowa is partnering with Holistic Management International to provide a two-day workshop on whole farm financial planning for fruit and vegetable farmers. As trail-blazing CSA and direct-market farmers find their farm businesses maturing and bodies aging, many begin to think about how to manage their farm differently while continuing to meet their economic and lifestyle goals.
This course provides key financial principles that help farmers learn how to work on their business, not just in their business. Participants will develop a financial plan and identify ways to implement and monitor that plan. They will learn the key economic analysis tools for improved financial decisions for both annual budgets and for long term investment. Participants will learn how to make financial decisions and plans toward the mission and values of your farm to create a sustainable business.
Cindy Dvergsten has been practicing Holistic Management since 1993 and teaching Holistic Management since 1995, reaching over 1,500 people. A life-long farmer, she has raised sheep, beef, poultry, and fruits and vegetables. She has a degree in Natural Resource Management and Soil Conservation from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Cindy is based in the four corners region of Colorado, where she raises Navajo-Churro sheep. This workshop will be held in conjunction with the PFI Beginning Farmer Retreat. The two groups will share meals and free time, but will have separate programming.
Workshop Details:
Where: Ewalu Camp and Retreat Center
37776 Alpha Avenue, Strawberry Point, IA 52076
Start: 9:00 am Friday, February 10
End: 4:00 pm Saturday, February 11
Cost: $50 for PFI members; $110 for non-members
Cost includes all meals and overnight lodging at the Ewalu Camp and Retreat Center. Alternative lodging is available on your own in Strawberry Point.
Registration is required by February 6. Register online at practicalfarmers.org, or call Lauren Zastrow at Practical Farmers of Iowa, (515) 232-5661. For questions, contact Liz Kolbe at the Practical Farmers office, (515) 232-5661.
— Practical Farmers of Iowa
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