Webinar to Discuss Profitability for Transitioning Organic Producers

Learn about achieving profitability during the transition to organic farming. SDSPA’s USDA TOPP webinar on Dec. 6, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. CST. Blake Burggraff, a recently transitioned organic farmer from Hartford, S.D., will share insights and practical advice. 

As transitioning to organic production can present financial challenges, this session will cover essential financial practices and strategies that can help mitigate risks and ensure a successful transition. Burggraff will share his firsthand experiences, detailing the strategies and decisions that contributed to his farm’s profitability during and after the transition process.

Participants will learn about effective budgeting, managing transition costs, and identifying new revenue streams within organic markets. The webinar will also address common pitfalls and how to avoid them, along with tips on leveraging available resources and support systems for organic producers. By the end of the session, attendees will have a better understanding of the financial considerations involved in transitioning to organic farming and be equipped with actionable insights to enhance their profitability in the organic market.

Register Here

This program is supported through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). TOPP is a program of the USDA Organic Transition Initiative and is administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP).

Agenda

Welcome and Introduction

Understanding the Financial Challenges of Transitioning to Organic Farming

  • Overview of the typical financial hurdles faced during the organic transition
  • Key cost considerations (e.g., certification, input changes, market access)
  • Importance of financial planning in the transition process

Essential Financial Practices for a Successful Transition

  • Strategies for budgeting and cost management during the transition
  • Identifying and securing financial support (grants, loans, and subsidies)
  • Managing cash flow and investment in organic practices
  • Diversifying income streams to mitigate risks

Blake Burggraff’s Journey: Firsthand Experiences and Lessons Learned

  • Burggraff’s transition story: motivations, challenges, and milestones
  • Key financial strategies that contributed to Burggraff’s profitability
  • How Burggraff navigated unexpected challenges and adjusted his financial plan
  • Long-term financial benefits observed after completing the organic transition

 Q&A Session

  • Open floor for participants to ask questions
  • Discussion on specific financial concerns and strategies

 Closing Remarks and Resources

On November 6, 2024   /   Grain & Pulse News, Meat News, News, Organic News