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Farmers

OSU's Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program Empowers New Producers

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Oklahoma State University's Beginning Farmer and Rancher program has been a game-changer for young farmers like Todd Thomas, who operates R+R Cattle Co. in Jones. With support from CoBank and the U.S. Department of Agriculture-National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the program provides strategic assistance to new producers, helping them overcome financial stability challenges, cash flow issues, and other problems. The program's goal is to increase the number of sustainable and successful beginning farmers and ranchers in Oklahoma.

Key Takeaways:

  • The OSU Beginning Farmer and Rancher program is designed to assist new producers in overcoming financial stability challenges, cash flow issues, and other problems.
  • The program provides immediate assistance through fact sheets, webinars, online courses, and resources, as well as ongoing support for those who need it.
  • Prospective producers fill out an online assessment form and are connected with a case manager who helps them with issues such as creating a business plan and connecting to resources.
  • The program offers an apprenticeship pilot program, supported by the USDA-NIFA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, which provides work-based experiential learning for 15 participants annually.
  • The Oklahoma State University's Beginning Farmer and Rancher program has seen a significant increase in interest, with a goal to build a pipeline of interest in agriculture and help newcomers avoid critical mistakes.

Statistics:

  • 2026: OSU's Beginning Farmer and Rancher program will launch an apprenticeship pilot program, supported by the USDA-NIFA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program.
  • 15 participants annually: The apprenticeship program will accept approximately 15 participants annually.
  • 500 hours: Participants will work 500 hours on an established farm, connecting with other beginner farmers and ranchers.
  • 2027: The apprenticeship program is scheduled to run this year as well.
  • 2%: The state of Oklahoma has 2% more beginning farmers and ranchers than the national average.

Sources:

  • "Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program" - Oklahoma State University Extension
  • https://extension.okstate.edu/articles/2025/beginner-farm-and-ranch.html

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