Tag Archive for: Sustainable Agriculture

Administrative Assistant – Grants & Contracts

The National Center for Appropriate Technology or NCAT has been helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources since 1976. NCAT is a national, private non-profit organization providing trusted, individualized technical assistance, hands-on training opportunities, practical educational resources, and peer-to-peer learning networks on nationally acclaimed projects in food, agriculture, energy, and climate resilience. Headquartered in Butte, Montana, NCAT has offices in 13 states. NCAT works to foster and promote sustainable technologies and systems, especially for the benefit of economically disadvantaged individuals and communities. NCAT is committed to advancing racial equity and inclusion in its work and organization.

This position can be part-time or full-time, and a remote work agreement may be considered. The applicant will be asked to come into the NCAT Butte office from time to time. The position will provide an outstanding opportunity to work with a dedicated and professional staff on a national level.

QUALIFICATIONS:
The position requires three years of relevant professional experience or an AA/AS in Business, Communications, or a closely related field along with relevant professional experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Familiarity with grant preparation and contract document management is desired.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission;
  • Strong interest and knowledge of mission-driven, non-profit organizations;
  • Ability to build relationships and collaborate with NCAT staff and Grant Administrative Specialist, as well as community organizations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other partners;
  • Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills, with experience in technical writing, editing, and research;
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite;
  • Knowledge of or ability to learn contract management software;
  • Strong organizational and planning skills with attention to detail;
  • Knowledge of meeting and event coordination;
  • Ability to prioritize work assignments and to complete tasks in a timely manner;
  • Interest in with sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and science-based technological solutions to climate change particularly in rural America;
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment;
  • Occasional travel is required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Promote and support NCAT’s mission;
  • Work with program staff on administrative aspects of grant preparation, submission, and contract management.
  • Track proposals and contracts in a contract management system to ensure process timelines;
  • Assist Grant Administrative Specialist with other administrative activities;
  • Coordinate and plan special meetings and events;
  • Support efforts to organize board meetings, make meeting room, hotel and other arrangements as necessary;
  • Assist in developing agendas, capture information in meetings, prepare meeting minutes for review and approval by Executive Staff and Board of Directors;
  • Be available to occasionally travel to Board.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
$19-$22/hourly depending on qualifications and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a cafeteria and 401(k) plan and a pleasant, professional environment.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org and attra.ncat.org to learn more about NCAT. NCAT employees interested in the position should email Human Resources a letter of interest as soon as possible. All persons interested in being considered for the position should upload a resume and cover letter through BambooHR. Please submit a current resume and a cover letter highlighting experience and skills relevant to the listed qualifications. Resume and cover letters can be uploaded at  https://ncat.bamboohr.com/careers. Simply choose the position you are applying for and then click “apply for this job” to upload the required resume and cover letter. Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Kriss Sullivan, Director of Human Resources
e-mail: jobs@ncat.org

NCAT’s mission is to help people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources. Our work brings together diverse partnerships and communities to help reduce poverty and protect our natural resources. We strive to be a multicultural organization that embraces the rich dimensions of diversity such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical ability, religious or political belief and marital or veteran status. Diversity creates healthy communities. Special consideration will be given to applicants who are reflective of the communities that we serve. NCAT is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For additional information about NCAT please visit our homepage.

Agricultural Conservation Planner – South Dakota

The National Center for Appropriate Technology or NCAT has been helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources since 1976. NCAT is a trusted, practical connector for individuals and business who are working to leave our world better than we found it. Through individualized technical assistance, hands-on training opportunities, in-depth educational resources, and peer-too-peer learning networks, NCAT works to foster and promote sustainable technologies and systems, especially for the benefit of economically disadvantaged individuals and communities. NCAT’s work includes nationally recognized projects in energy, agriculture, food and rural development.

NCAT is seeking an Agricultural Conservation Planner to help woolgrowers in the Northern Great Plains region of South Dakota to plan and implement conservation practices that improve climate resilience, sequester carbon, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The primary duty of the planner will be working closely with woolgrowers in South Dakota to complete detailed conservation plans for their properties that identify and prioritize on-farm opportunities for carbon capture and storage. Planners also provide technical assistance for the implementation of practices identified in the plan, verify implementation, assist with project monitoring, and coordinate climate-smart agriculture efforts with local partner organizations and agencies. Planners also serve as connectors between the ag community and groups offering resources for improving soil health, drought resiliency, and climate adaptation.

We will consider part-time and full-time applicants. The successful candidate for this position will be required to set up and work from a remote office in Westcentral South Dakota or the nearby area. They must be willing and able to travel frequently throughout their specified region to farms, events, workshops, and training as needed. NCAT can help with relocation costs for the right applicant.

QUALIFICATIONS:
This position requires a BA/BS degree in agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, conservation, or related fields and a minimum of five years of farming experience. Applicants with equivalent but different combinations of education and experience will be considered. While not required, preference is for candidates with experience in animal (especially sheep) agriculture in the Northern Great Plains; experience in building soil health through regenerative ranching and farming; and demonstrated competence/certification in whole farm planning, such as NRCS conservation planner certification. New hires are required to successfully complete the Carbon Cycle Institute’s Carbon Farm Planning Training and Curriculum and become a Certified Carbon Farm Planner within 6 months of hire. (NCAT will provide the Carbon Cycle Institute’s Carbon Farm Planning Training for Certification. The training requires 2-4 hours/week for a period of 3 weeks.)

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Commitment and passion for the NCAT mission;
  • Strong knowledge of animal agriculture in the Northern Great Plains and familiarity with ag-related organizations and government agencies;
  • Familiarity with concepts of sustainability and regenerative agricultural practices;
  • Experience working with land managers and agricultural producers in conservation planning, whole farm planning, climate adaptation planning, soil health planning, and/or carbon farming planning and implementation;
  • Competence in GIS mapping, data management, and using software such as the Web Soil Survey and the Rangeland Analysis Platform;
  • Competence with Microsoft Office and Google Suite;
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Northern Great Plains ecology, plants, wildlife, soils, and climate;
  • Excellent attention to detail and demonstrated verbal and written communication skills;
  • Exceptional ability to communicate and build constructive, professional relationships with farmers, ranchers, community organizations, government agencies, partners, private contractors, Tribal staff and citizens, resource professionals, and the general public;
  • Ability to recognize and successfully pursue additional or alternative funding sources for high-priority projects and partnerships;
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
  • Self-directed and organized with the ability to work independently to meet multiple deadlines;
  • Exceptional ability to work productively both independently and in a collaborative team setting;
  • Ability to coordinate groups and teams and manage time effectively on multiple projects;
  • Ability to sit, walk, and listen for up to 8 hours per day;
  • Ability to conduct on-farm fieldwork in challenging terrain, weather, and climate conditions while carrying up to 30 pounds
  • And the willingness and ability to travel around the state, region, and on occasion out of the state. Travel may involve flexible work hours, including evenings, and weekends, and some overnight travel may be required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Promote and support NCAT’s mission;
  • In collaboration with woolgrowers, write tailored and individualized conservation plans that include, but are not limited to, producer goals, soil and ecological site assessments, spatial mapping, resource concerns, a suite of recommended NRCS Conservation Practice Standards and quantified greenhouse gas benefit.
  • Provide regionally appropriate technical assistance for conservation practice adoption to woolgrowers via in-person site visits as well as by phone, email, social media, workshops, and field demonstrations;
  • Monitor, measure and report on conservation practice implementation
  • Serve as point person to work collaboratively with agricultural producers, staff of NCAT and the Carbon Cycle Institute, and technical assistance providers such as staff of NRCS, Conservation Districts, Watershed groups, and university extension agents to develop technical CFPs that reflect farmer goals and include a suite of recommended NRCS-conservation practice standards with quantifiable GHG or carbon sequestration benefits;
  • Collect data and prepare quarterly project reports towards outcomes and goals, such as implementation acres, practices implemented, quantifiable GHG benefits, farm productivity, and the marketing and sales of agricultural products grown using climate-friendly practices;
  • Create educational and outreach materials such as tip sheets, workshop content, and public presentations;
  • Assist with written and visual content for periodic progress reports and press releases;
  • Assist in arranging educational activities, such as field days, pasture walks, Climate Resilience
    Demonstration Days, and one regional capstone conference
  • Cultivate peer-to-peer producer learning communities;
  • Develop and maintain positive, productive, professional relationships with producers, coworkers, partner organizations, agencies, research institutions, and Tribes as part of program delivery;
  • Maintain understanding of the full range of compatible agricultural and conservation programs currently available in the region, and effectively connect producers to these opportunities;
  • Carry out diversity and inclusion efforts, including outreach to small and historically underserved producers to embed equity within NCAT’s outreach efforts;
  • Present at conferences, producer association meetings, stakeholder meetings, and other appropriate forums;
  • Contribute content for promotional communications and outreach activities, such as blogs, podcasts, press releases, earned media pushes, and video production;
  • Participate in the creation and/or delivery of promotional and educational media related to climate-beneficial practices for woolgrowers;
  • And stay abreast of current and emerging research in the field of agricultural conservation planning, soil health, wool production, and agricultural practices that have proven GHG benefits.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
$60,000 – $65,000 annually depending on work status, qualifications, and experience. Excellent benefits include a flexible schedule, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a cafeteria and 401(k) plan, and a pleasant, professional environment.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged. Applicants are encouraged to visit www.ncat.org and attra.ncat.org to learn more about NCAT. NCAT employees interested in the position should email Human Resources a letter of interest as soon as possible. All persons interested in being considered for the position must submit an NCAT application and upload a resume and cover letter through BambooHR. To start the application process please visit NCAT Employment Application and complete the online supplemental. Incomplete applications or references on the application to “see resume” will not be considered. The next part of the process is uploading a current resume and a cover letter highlighting experience and skills relevant to the listed qualifications. Resume and cover letters can be uploaded at https://ncat.bamboohr.com/careers. Simply choose the position you are applying for and then click “apply for this job” to upload the required resume and cover letter. Questions about the application process can be directed to:

Kriss Sullivan, Director of Human Resources
e-mail: jobs@ncat.org

NCAT’s mission is to help people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources. Our work brings together diverse partnerships and communities to help reduce poverty and protect our natural resources. We strive to be a multicultural organization that embraces the rich dimensions of diversity such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical ability, religious or political belief and marital or veteran status. Diversity creates healthy communities. Special consideration will be given to applicants who are reflective of the communities that we serve. NCAT is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For additional information about NCAT please visit our homepage.

AgCorps AmeriCorps Member – Montana AG Literacy Specialist

AgCorps Mission: To serve Montana communities by providing Ag literacy and environmental stewardship education to create resilient, healthy, and engaged communities under the Big Sky.

Location 3040 Continental Dr. Butte, Montana 59701
Supervisor information Molly Kirkham, NCAT Harvest of the Month Phone: 406-494-6872 Email: mollyk@ncat.org
Term of Service This is a full-time 1700hr position. Term dates are January- November 2024. Members are expected to serve 40 hours/week. Typical working times are Monday-Friday 8:00AM-4:30PM

 

About AmeriCorps:

AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. The AmeriCorps mission is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering.

Purpose:

AgCorps is a state AmeriCorps program administered by the Montana Department of Agriculture. AgCorps aims to improve the capacity of partner organizations to meet their mission, grow collaborations, provide effective programming, and create resilient, healthy, safe, and engaged communities in Montana. This program is also designed to serve rural and underfunded school districts in Montana that require more accessibility to Ag literacy materials. The AgCorps program strives to deliver the best possible resources and values integrity, leadership, and trust in its members and host sites.

Location:

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is headquartered in Butte, Montana, with staff located across the U.S. NCAT’s deep portfolio of sustainable agriculture and energy projects spans every region of the country. The geographic diversity of our work, and trusted expertise of our staff in each of these regions, allow NCAT to provide relevant information, individualized technical assistance, and in–depth resources to support sustainable agriculture and accessible energy solutions nationwide.


Butte is the fifth largest city in Montana and sits in between a few of the state’s largest cities: Missoula, Bozeman, and Helena. The city has great opportunities to learn about its history, as well as many restaurants, shops, sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings. Butte is also surrounded by access to recreation such as skiing, hiking, fishing, floating, biking, and climbing.

 

Service Position Summary:

The Montana Harvest of the Month (HOM) program showcases Montana-grown and raised food in Montana schools, institutions, organizations, and businesses. Each month, participating sites focus on promoting one locally grown item by displaying HOM posters and materials, serving it in snacks or meals, offering it for purchase, or doing educational lessons and activities. The two primary goals of this program are to promote local, healthy foods to Montanans and to support Montana farmers, ranchers, and food businesses. Participating sites receive a free packet of materials including posters, handouts, recipes, and other promotional materials, as well as guides, additional resources, and training. There are approximately 80 schools, 50 early care and education sites, 20 businesses and organizations, and 10 producers currently participating in HOM throughout the state of Montana.

 

The AmeriCorps member will implement HOM throughout Montana. With the below service activities, the member will increase ag literacy in Montana, as well as knowledge and consumption of Montana grown and raised foods. The service member will also implement HOM in communities with minimal resources and capacity to participate in the program. This will help develop a more equitable landscape of ag literacy in Montana.

 

Essential Functions and responsibilities:

  • Partner with current HOM sites to assist with their HOM activities
  • Make new connections with organizations, schools, early care and education providers, and institutions to implement HOM
  • Assist with producer visits and field trips
  • Plan and conduct taste tests, educational activities, and cooking and gardening lessons
  • Help sites find funding for HOM activities
  • Attend state-wide events to increase awareness of HOM
  • Assist with program maintenance, planning, and material design
  • Help lead mini-grant programs and other HOM-related projects

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

  • Valid driver’s license
  • Basic writing, computer, and communication skills
  • Comfortable leading educational activities, cooking and gardening lessons, and making connections with community members.
  • Interest in agriculture, food systems, and agricultural education

 

Service Conditions:

This position will be in the field and on the road about 60% of the time. Member will be travelling to schools, school and community gardens, farmers markets, organizations, healthcare centers, early care and education facilities, and other Montana institutions and businesses. The remaining 40% will be conducted in a typical office environment. Transportation or mileage reimbursement for program activities will be provided.

 

Orientation and Training (Mandatory):

  • Orientation is a three–day long event. We will cover multiple topics including expectations, prohibited activities, program benefits, timesheets, and reporting
  • Montana Symposium is held in March every year. This is an opportunity to meet other AmeriCorps members in the state and to develop your understanding of AmeriCorps
  • Mid–Term Training will be a two to three–day long training held in June. This will be a time to reflect on your service and connect with other members
  • End of Service is an event focused on concluding your service. There will be a civic reflection and resources to prepare you for life after AmeriCorps

 

Evaluation and Reportion:

  • Members will be required to complete a monthly report focused on capacity building and environmental knowledge data from program participants and community members
  • There will be a mid-service evaluation and an end of service evaluation
  • Supervisors are encouraged to meet with their member on a weekly basis at minimum

 

AmeriCorps Program Benefits:

  • Members receive a living allowance of $21,000 to cover basic expenses while serving
  • Upon successful completion of service, members receive a $7,895 education award
  • While serving, members may qualify for student loan forbearance
  • Healthcare/childcare services are available while serving
  • A $200/month housing stipend if eligible
  • Other benefits include being part of an incredible community, being surrounded by professionals in multiple fields, and job shadowing opportunities
  • AmeriCorps alumni benefits include access to nationwide alumni network, many career resources, access to AmeriCorps alumni emails and updates

 

AmeriCorps Service minimum Requirements:

  • Must be 18+ at the beginning of service (17+ requires parental consent)
  • High school graduate, GED recipient, working towards obtaining a high school diploma/GED
  • Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States
  • Satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria

 

For more information, please Contact:
Amanda Coyle: AgCorps Program Coordinator
(406) 444-7819
Amanda.Coyle@mt.gov


To Apply:

Visit https://my.americorps.gov

 

 

*All positions are contingent upon a successful background check

*All positions are contingent upon continued CNCS grant funding

The Montana AgCorps Program, under the Montana Department of Agriculture, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other discrimination not based on merit or qualifications.

AgCorps AmeriCorps Member – Butte AG Literacy Specialist

AgCorps Mission: To serve Montana communities by providing Ag literacy and environmental stewardship education to create resilient, healthy, and engaged communities under the Big Sky.

Location 3040 Continental Dr. Butte, Montana 59701
Supervisor information Molly Kirkham, NCAT Harvest of the Month Phone: 406-494-6872 Email: mollyk@ncat.org
Term of Service This is a full-time 1700hr position. Term dates are January- November 2024. Members are expected to serve 40 hours/week. Typical working times are Monday-Friday 8:00AM-4:30PM

About AmeriCorps:

AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. The AmeriCorps mission is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering.

Purpose:

AgCorps is a state AmeriCorps program administered by the Montana Department of Agriculture. AgCorps aims to improve the capacity of partner organizations to meet their mission, grow collaborations, provide effective programming, and create resilient, healthy, safe, and engaged communities in Montana. This program is also designed to serve rural and underfunded school districts in Montana that require more accessibility to Ag literacy materials. The AgCorps program strives to deliver the best possible resources and values integrity, leadership, and trust in its members and host sites.

Location:

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is headquartered in Butte, Montana, with staff located across the U.S. NCAT’s deep portfolio of sustainable agriculture and energy projects spans every region of the country. The geographic diversity of our work, and trusted expertise of our staff in each of these regions, allow NCAT to provide relevant information, individualized technical assistance, and in–depth resources to support sustainable agriculture and accessible energy solutions nationwide.


Butte is the fifth largest city in Montana and sits in between a few of the state’s largest cities: Missoula, Bozeman, and Helena. The city has great opportunities to learn about its history, as well as many restaurants, shops, sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings. Butte is also surrounded by access to recreation such as skiing, hiking, fishing, floating, biking, and climbing.

 

Service Position Summary:

The Montana Harvest of the Month (HOM) program showcases Montana-grown and raised food in Montana schools, institutions, organizations, and businesses. Each month, participating sites focus on promoting one locally grown item by displaying HOM posters and materials, serving it in snacks or meals, offering it for purchase, or doing educational lessons and activities. The two primary goals of this program are to promote local, healthy foods to Montanans and to support Montana farmers, ranchers, and food businesses.

 

NCAT’s Small-Scale Intensive Farm Training program (SIFT) operates a high-altitude urban demonstration farm in Butte, Montana, that is focused on production of food for the good of the community. The farm operates a food donation program to the Butte Food Bank and a waste food collection service for composting purposes on the SIFT site. In addition, the SIFT hosts educational programs, and organizations as part of their summer camp program.

 

The AmeriCorps member will implement HOM and SIFT activities throughout Butte. With the below service activities, the member will serve the Butte community by increasing knowledge, consumption, and access to Montana grown and raised foods. The member will have the opportunity to deliver hands on education in agriculture and food production, through planned field trips to the SIFT farm and other local producers, to learn skills related to sustainable food production techniques, the Butte growing season, crops suitable for the climate, healthy soils, soil nutrition and much more.

 

Essential Functions and responsibilities:

  • Partner with current HOM sites to assist with their HOM activities
  • Make new connections with organizations, schools, early care/education providers, etc.
  • Plan and conduct taste tests, educational activities, and cooking and gardening lessons
  • Assist with producer visits and field trips to SIFT
  • Assist sites with funding for HOM activities
  • Increase outreach and education with local organizations, schools, and non-profits
  • Attend Community events to increase awareness of HOM
  • Deliver hands on and education focused on food production, the climate, healthy soils, and soil nutrition

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

  • Valid driver’s license
  • Comfortable leading educational activities, cooking and gardening lessons, and making connections with community members of all ages
  • Interest in agriculture, food systems, and agricultural education
  • Willing to work in an outdoor environment in all weather conditions.
  • Knowledge of local food system issues
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and be willing to learn how to use semi-large machinery

 

Service Conditions:

This position will be in the field and on the road about 70% of the time (20% HOM and 50% SIFT). The remaining 30% will be conducted in a typical office environment updating social media content on SIFT initiatives for building sustainable food communities and HOM content creation. Transportation or mileage reimbursement for program activities will be provided.

 

Orientation and Training (Mandatory):

  • Orientation is a three–day long event. We will cover multiple topics including expectations, prohibited activities, program benefits, timesheets, and reporting
  • Montana Symposium is held in March every year. This is an opportunity to meet other AmeriCorps members in the state and to develop your understanding of AmeriCorps
  • Mid–Term Training will be a two to three–day long training held in June. This will be a time to reflect on your service and connect with other members
  • End of Service is an event focused on concluding your service. There will be a civic reflection and resources to prepare you for life after AmeriCorps

 

Evaluation and Reportion:

  • Members will be required to complete a monthly report focused on capacity building and environmental knowledge data from program participants and community members
  • There will be a mid-service evaluation and an end of service evaluation
  • Supervisors are encouraged to meet with their member on a weekly basis at minimum

 

AmeriCorps Program Benefits:

  • Members receive a living allowance of $21,000 to cover basic expenses while serving
  • Upon successful completion of service, members receive a $7,895 education award
  • While serving, members may qualify for student loan forbearance
  • Healthcare/childcare services are available while serving
  • A $200/month housing stipend if eligible
  • Other benefits include being part of an incredible community, being surrounded by professionals in multiple fields, and job shadowing opportunities
  • AmeriCorps alumni benefits include access to nationwide alumni network, many career resources, access to AmeriCorps alumni emails and updates

 

AmeriCorps Service minimum Requirements:

  • Must be 18+ at the beginning of service (17+ requires parental consent)
  • High school graduate, GED recipient, working towards obtaining a high school diploma/GED
  • Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States
  • Satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria

 

For more information, please Contact:
Amanda Coyle: AgCorps Program Coordinator
(406) 444-7819
Amanda.Coyle@mt.gov


To Apply:

Visit https://my.americorps.gov

 

 

*All positions are contingent upon a successful background check

*All positions are contingent upon continued CNCS grant funding

The Montana AgCorps Program, under the Montana Department of Agriculture, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other discrimination not based on merit or qualifications.

NCAT Launches the Regenerator’s Atlas of America to Connect Farmers, Land Managers

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) has launched its Regenerator’s Atlas of America, an interactive storytelling map connecting farmers, ranchers, and land managers who are taking steps to catch and hold more water in the soil. The Regenerator’s Atlas of America is part of NCAT’s Soil for Water project.

“From Maine to Minnesota, Texas to Idaho, the Regenerator’s Atlas of America is sharing the stories of farmers and ranchers who are finding ways to catch and hold more water in the soils, making their businesses more resilient to drought, erosion, and extreme weather,” NCAT Executive Director Steve Thompson said. “The Regenerator’s Atlas of America is creating a virtual gathering place and information-sharing platform for the growing number of agricultural producers who know that soil health is key to a strong business.”

NCAT’s Soil for Water project is about connecting producers with each other to share land management practices that improve soil health, catch more water in soil, reduce erosion, sustain diverse plant and animal life, and filter out pollutants, all while improving the profitability of their businesses.

Doug Garrison, owner of DS Family Farm near Lincoln, Nebraska is among the nearly 200 farmers who have joined the free and voluntary Soil for Water network, and he’s also added his place to the Regenerator’s Atlas of America. For 25 years, Garrison has been practicing regenerative grazing and wants to connect with other ranchers who are trying similar methods.

“My main interest in Soil for Water is to learn from others who are practicing regenerative ag in their specific context. We like to see what others are doing, think about what they are doing and see what their results are,” Garrison said. “Then, we may take some of their ideas or techniques and adapt it to our farm context and try it.  We look for both similar and opposite techniques from what we are doing. You never know where you might find the next breakthrough idea for your operation.”

Unhealthy soil doesn’t absorb much water. Healthy soil acts like a sponge, capable of holding hundreds of thousands of gallons of water in an acre. Climate trends across much of the U.S. indicate longer, hotter drought periods punctuated by storms that often are more severe, according to a 2021 USDA report. Regenerative farming practices enable the soil to capture rainfall that otherwise might disappear as runoff. Economically, these practices can increase crop and forage production, drought resilience, access to lucrative new markets, and therefore profitability. Environmentally, they can improve soil health and biodiversity.

The Regenerator’s Atlas of America joins the Soil for Water Forum as another way farmers and ranchers can connect and learn from one another.

To learn more about the newly expanded Soil for Water project, add your pin to the Regenerator’s Atlas or chat at the Forum visit SOILFORWATER.ORG.

-30-

THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY has been helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources since 1976. Headquartered in Butte, Montana, NCAT has field offices in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Learn more and become a friend of NCAT at NCAT.ORG.

New Toolkit: How to Reduce Synthetic Fertilizer Use

For more than 35 years, the National Center for Appropriate Technology’s ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture program has been helping farmers and ranchers grow nutritious food and operate successful businesses without synthetic fertilizer. Now, NCAT has released a new toolkit with trusted and practical resources for farmers who want to transition away from the use of synthetic fertilizers.

“As the cost of synthetic fertilizers and global food prices continue to climb, NCAT is releasing a roadmap for farmers who are looking for a more self-reliant and resilient method of farming,” said NCAT Southeast Regional Director and Arkansas farmer Margo Hale. “A growing number of farmers are opting out of the high-input model of conventional agriculture, which we see now is so vulnerable to global events like war and supply chain disruption.”

As the world’s farmers watch the cost of synthetic fertilizer continue to increase, and global food prices shatter records kept by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, the global food system is being stressed like never before. There is a more stable, resilient model being used in every corner of the United States. These farmers rely on biological sources of nitrogen, breaking free of an often-volatile global marketplace.

Farming without synthetic fertilizers is within reach for large-scale food producers, and it’s a requirement for certified organic farmers. Montana grain-grower Bob Quinn transitioned his family’s conventional farm to an organic one back in 1989. Quinn brought Khorasan wheat to the mainstream marketplace with his brand KAMUT. In Maryland, Ron Holter manages his 150-cow seasonal dairy on grass alone, with no supplementary grain. Holter’s dairy has been free of synthetic fertilizer since 1995. Dave Brandt began cover cropping his Ohio corn and soybeans in 1978. Cover crops have maintained his cash-crop yields while reducing nitrogen fertilizer use by nearly 90 percent. Brandt credits cover crops with increasing soil microbial activity naturally, which provides nutrients to the food he grows and increases the soil’s water-holding capacity.

Data show consumer demand for certified organic and other regeneratively produced foods continues to increase. The sale of organic products in the U.S. has grown more than 30 percent since 2016, and the number of organic producers is up almost 40 percent. Farmers who use regenerative methods, but might not be certified organic, are no doubt on the rise, too.

Shifting to a production method that is not reliant on synthetic fertilizers can be accomplished strategically over a three- to five-year transitional period. NCAT’s new toolkit guides farmers as they learn to use cover crops, managed grazing, and alternative soil amendments to naturally boost renewable nitrogen levels needed to maintain long-term productivity. These are accessible tools that can result in reduced input costs, increased self-reliance, and more nutritious food grown at small and large scales.

Access the free toolkit and decades of trusted, practical resources here: https://attra.ncat.org/how-to-reduce-synthetic-fertilizer-use/ .

EXPERT VOICES

NINA PRATER
Expertise Areas: Livestock, Soil Health, Organic Crops

Nina Prater has been with the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) since 2016 as a Soil Specialist and Outreach Coordinator in the Southeast Regional Office. She strives to help farmers understand soils as a living entity so that they are able to farm profitably and build healthy soils for long-term success. Nina also works closely with the Gulf States Regional Office staff to coordinate outreach efforts in that region. Nina served as an Energy Corps member in 2013 and worked for her local conservation district for 2.5 years before joining NCAT. Nina and her husband Jeremy own and operate a small sustainable livestock operation in the Ozarks hills of Arkansas, where they raise meat goats, cattle, hogs, and poultry. They utilize adaptive grazing methods to build soil health in their pastures.

LEE RINEHART
Expertise Areas: Livestock, Organic Livestock, Soil Health, Grazing, Pasture Ecology

Lee Rinehart is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he studied animal science and agricultural education. He currently works as an agriculture specialist in the National Center for Appropriate Technology’s Northeast Regional Office, where he focuses on pasture and rangeland ecology and grazing systems. He has served as county Extension agent in Texas and Montana, organic farm educator in Pennsylvania, and cattle ranch manager in central Texas. His specialty is developing grazing plans and assisting producers in using animals to renovate pastureland. Lee is a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy Reserve and spends his free time biking, sailing, and renovating his 1925 Cape Cod house in Northeast Pennsylvania.

 

NCAT’s Free Farmer-Veteran Training is Headed to Texas

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is bringing its free Armed to Farm training back to the Hill Country, after hosting a 2015 training in Castroville, Texas. Armed to Farm will take place May 16-20, 2022, in Fredericksburg. Farmer-veterans will attend classroom sessions and travel to local farms for hands-on learning experiences. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 8.

Armed to Farm trainings include an engaging blend of farm tours, hands-on activities, and interactive classroom instruction. NCAT Sustainable Agriculture specialists will teach the sessions. Staff from USDA agencies and experienced crop and livestock producers will provide additional instruction.

“We’re eager to bring Armed to Farm back to the Lone Star State,” said Armed to Farm Program Director Margo Hale. “Armed to Farm has served more than 800 veterans in all corners of the country as they start or grow their own sustainable farm business.”  

Armed to Farm is a sustainable agriculture training program for military veterans. NCAT, a national nonprofit organization based in Butte, Montana, developed Armed to Farm in 2013 through a cooperative agreement with USDA-Rural Development. Farmer veterans learn how to make a business plan and market their products, how to access USDA programs, set business goals, and develop mentorships with seasoned farmers.

“The education that I received has been invaluable for the launching and development of our family farm, Mind Your Garden Urban Farm,” said Armed to Farm alumnus Steven Nuñez, who farms with his family in Fort Worth. “The NCAT staff were truly knowledgeable and always willing to help and answer questions. The three most helpful takeaways for me were learning of the many resources available for veterans interested in a career in agriculture, the importance of diversifying income streams for the farm operation, and most importantly, understanding how crucial it is to cultivate a new generation of farmers to carry on the service to our country that our aging farmers have provided for decades.”

This training is for military veterans in Southwest. The number of participants will be limited. Spouses or farm partners are welcome to attend with a veteran but must submit a separate application.

Click HERE to apply by April 8. NCAT will notify selected participants by April 15.

Armed to Farm Texas is supported by funding from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. Successful applicants may also receive a travel stipend thanks to our partnership with California-based Ranchin’ Vets.

Learn more about NCAT’s Armed to Farm and additional training series at ARMEDTOFARM.ORG.

NCAT Launches Nation’s First AgriSolar Clearinghouse

In less than a decade, solar installations are expected to cover more than 3 million acres of the United States, creating a big opportunity to pair solar with agricultural land to produce food, conserve ecosystems, create renewable energy, increase pollinator habitat, and maximize farm revenue.

The National Center for Appropriate Technology, a nonprofit focused on sustainable energy and agriculture solutions, has launched the nation’s first AgriSolar Clearinghouse to connect farmers, ranchers, land managers, solar developers, and researchers with trusted, practical information to increase the co-location of solar and agriculture.

“There are tremendous benefits of pairing solar and agriculture,” NCAT Energy Programs Director Stacie Peterson, PhD said. “As America’s appetite for sustainably grown products and renewable energy continues to increase, agrisolar has the potential to provide both resources. AgriSolar is a win-win.”  

NCAT’s AgriSolar Clearinghouse features a library of peer-reviewed information, a media hub featuring videos, podcasts, and relevant news, and a user forum to connect people interested in agrisolar development in real-time.

“The AgriSolar Clearinghouse will present a platform open to all Americans for sharing the nationwide efforts in agricultural integration at solar facilities,” said American Solar Grazing Association Executive Director Lexie Hain. “The exciting thing for us at ASGA is that the AgriSolar Clearinghouse will amplify a thoughtful and trusted approach to expanding America’s efforts in solar and agricultural land use.”

The project’s diverse group of more than 30 partners and stakeholders representing private business, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, national energy laboratories, the Smithsonian, and leading universities will be a key ingredient in supporting the expansion of agrisolar developments across the country.

NCAT’s AgriSolar Clearinghouse is funded by a three-year, $2.03 million cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office within the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. The Solar Energy Technologies Office supports early-stage research and development to improve the affordability, reliability, and domestic benefit of solar technologies on the grid.

“NCAT and our partners are well positioned to help solar developers and farmers connect to make the most out of co-locating solar arrays and agricultural land,” NCAT Executive Director Steve Thompson said. “For 45 years, NCAT has been a trusted broker of practical information to advance locally-grown and sustainable agriculture and energy solutions.”

To learn more about the AgriSolar Clearinghouse visit AGRISOLARCLEARINGHOUSE.ORG.

NCAT and Ranchin’ Vets Partner to Make Armed to Farm Trainings Accessible 
to More Veterans

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and Ranchin’ Vets have teamed up to offer a new level of support for military veterans interested in sustainable agriculture training opportunities. Ranchin’ Vets will fund a one-time transportation stipend directly to veterans selected to participate in NCAT’s Armed to Farm training program.

Armed to Farm is a sustainable agriculture training program for military veterans. NCAT manages the program with support from a variety of funding sources, including a cooperative agreement with USDA-Rural Development. Since launching in 2013, Armed to Farm has supported more than 800 farmer veterans from 45 states with hands-on and classroom learning opportunities. Farmer veterans learn how to make a business plan and market their products, how to access USDA programs, set business goals, and develop mentorships with seasoned farmers.

Armed to Farm has always been free for veterans and their spouses or farm partners to attend. NCAT covers the cost of lodging, most meals, and local transportation during the training. However, attendees have always been responsible for getting themselves to the training site, which could require long drives across several states or even airfare.

“We want everyone who is accepted into the Armed to Farm program to be able to participate, so we are excited to partner with Ranchin’ Vets to open this opportunity to even more farmer veterans,” said Margo Hale, Armed to Farm Program Director. “Although the training itself is free, the cost of traveling to the training can be substantial and has been a barrier to veterans attending Armed to Farm in the past. We’re very thankful for this opportunity to offer another level of support to the farmer veterans who attend Armed to Farm.”

Ranchin’ Vets, a California based 501 c (3) nonprofit organization founded in 2014, serves veterans on a national level, with a mission to assist in the reintegration of veterans from military to civilian life through a variety of programs offered within the ranching and agricultural industry.

The Ranchin’ Vets Operation Hire A Vet Program connects veterans with opportunities within the agricultural industry. Veterans in the program who need additional support receive a temporary stipend towards transportation, housing and clothing as they pursue agricultural opportunities.

“Through our Operation Hire A Vet Program, we recognized the need for a training program that will equip veterans with the tools they need to be successful in their agricultural endeavors. This partnership with Armed to Farm is an incredible opportunity to work together to assure that all veterans who are interested in pursuing this path will have access to resources that will help them thrive,” said Corey Downs, Ranchin’ Vets Program Director. “Our programs go hand-in-hand, providing veterans with fully funded access to professional agricultural training, as well as assistance in seeking and obtaining agricultural employment. We are so grateful to have the opportunity to work with Armed to Farm.”  

The travel stipends will be available starting with the next Armed to Farm training, scheduled for Dec. 1-3, 2021, in Athens, Georgia. For Armed to Farm participants to receive a transportation stipend, they must successfully register with Ranchin’ Vets.

For more information about Ranchin’ Vets, visit ranchinvets.org. See ARMEDTOFARM.ORG for more about NCAT’s Armed to Farm program.

NCAT Leads Partnership to Train Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Across Northern Great Plains

The National Center for Appropriate Technology will lead a regional partnership to help more than 300 beginning farmers and ranchers across the Northern Great Plains explore the value, viability, and resilience of raising organic field crops.

NCAT will lead this $600,000 three-year Preparing a Resilient Future project alongside the Montana Organic Association, Northern Plains Sustainable Agriculture Society, Center for Rural Affairs, the Intertribal Agriculture Council, Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society, International Organic Inspectors Association, North Dakota State, and University of Wyoming

“The Preparing a Resilient Future project is unique in that it will help beginning farmers and ranchers fully explore the economic and productive viability of organic systems in the Northern Great Plains,” said NCAT Agricultural and Natural Resource Economist and Project Director Jeff Schahczenski. “NCAT has long-recognized that farmers and ranchers learn best from other farmers and ranchers.”

Unlike most programs focused on beginning farmers and ranchers, the new project targets medium to large-scale field crop and livestock operations. This project was selected in a national competition under the Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Development Program funded through the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Researchers often assume that beginning organic farmers are smaller-scale operations because of the challenge of finding and acquiring affordable land and high cost of larger-scale machinery. Programs that help beginning farmers tend to focus on organic specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and flowers. Research has shown that only about 25 percent of Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Development programs train and educate beginning farmers to focus on commodity field crops such as, wheat, barley, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas and beans and oilseeds as well as beef livestock production.

Why Field Crops?

Interest in growing organic field crops is on the rise in the Northern Great Plains, and there appears to be good reason to think there would be markets for them.

Research shows that organic vegetable and specialty crop growers are meeting the national demand in the U.S. because there’s a net export of their products. At the same time, organically grown field crops are being imported into the U.S. at stable and sometimes increasing rates.

“Organic farming is not prescriptive,” said Jamie Ryan Lockman, Executive Director of the Montana Organic Association and Co-Project Director. “It is a system that requires diverse crops and diverse approaches subject to constant change. Montana is the number one organic wheat- and pulse-producing state in the country; it is uniquely positioned to provide education as well as opportunities to meet, learn, collaborate, mentor, do business, and more.”

Bringing in the Community

NCAT and the project collaborators will host intensive training sessions, one-on-one technical assistance, and on-farm workshops and tours. The training will be conducted in two-day “Organic Academy Road Show” sessions. Importantly, experienced organic farmers and ranchers are some of the lead trainers in this project.  

In addition to the farmers and ranchers taking part, the sessions will include other members of their agricultural communities, including civic leaders, county Extension agents and officials from USDA agencies such as the Farm Service Administration and the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

That outreach is vital as support for the beginning farmers and to introduce organic farming and ranching to the agricultural community in their area.

Opportunities for Diversity

Over the past seven years, NCAT has helped nearly 900 military veteran farmers through its Armed to Farm training projects around the country.

In addition, NCAT and MOA have undertaken many training workshops that have included tribal members, who make up about 2 percent of all new beginning farmers in the Northern Great Plains.

That emphasis on diversity will be reflected in the Preparing a Resilient Future project, which will include at least 50 veteran, limited-resource, tribal, and socially disadvantaged participants.

“NCAT is a longtime, trusted resource for providing accessible training to farmers and ranchers,” said NCAT Executive Director Steve Thompson. “Now we have the opportunity to formally partner with several leading organic and sustainable agriculture organizations and tribal nations to deliver high-quality training to beginning farmers, ranchers, and their community support systems across the Northern Great Plains, creating a recipe for success.”

The Preparing a Resilient Future project will serve farmers and ranchers in Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.