2025 Emerging Farmers Symposium Set to Empower Panhandle Agriculture
The UF/IFAS and FAMU Extension Team will host the 2025 Emerging Farmers Symposium on Thursday, September 4, at the Florida A&M University Research and Educational Center, located at 4259 Bainbridge Highway in Quincy, Florida. This full-day event is tailored to support emerging and beginning farmers across the Florida Panhandle, offering education, resources, and networking opportunities to help agricultural enterprises thrive.The symposium will spotlight key topics relevant to today’s evolving agricultural landscape, including:
- Heirs’ Property – The keynote address will explore the complexities and solutions surrounding heirs’ property, a critical issue affecting land ownership and generational farming.
- USDA Lending and Cost-Share Programs – Sessions will cover financial support options through the USDA Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service.
- FDACS Initiatives – Attendees will learn about cost-share programs and marketing opportunities through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, including the Fresh from Florida campaign.
- Agritourism and Marketing – Experts will share strategies for diversifying farm income through tourism and direct-to-consumer marketing.
- Farm to School Program – Insights into connecting local farms with educational institutions to promote healthy, sustainable food systems.
- Protected Agriculture Tour – A guided tour of high tunnel systems will offer hands-on learning about season extension and crop protection.
- Small Ruminant and Beginner Farmer Programs – Updates on livestock management and support for new farmers and ranchers.
- Economic Development and Legislative Outlook – Local and state representatives will discuss business support and policy updates impacting agriculture.
- Producer Panel Q&A – A moderated discussion with experienced producers will provide practical insights and peer-to-peer learning.
This symposium promises to be a dynamic gathering of agricultural minds, offering practical tools and visionary ideas to help Florida’s emerging farmers grow their future.
Registration and Details
The registration fee is $10 and includes refreshments, lunch, and educational materials. Attendees will also have access to a variety of vendors offering agricultural products and services throughout the day. To register, visit https://2025emergingfarmers.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Donna Arnold at (850) 875-7255 or via email at donna1.arnold@famu.edu or darnold1@famu.edu.
Donna Arnold is the small farms & residential horticulture agent for FAMU/UF/IFAS Extension Gadsden County.
