As more consumers search for fresh local foods, more farmers are considering adding an entrepreneurial business such as eggs, honey, or produce to their farm business. Many new farmers, even those with just a few acres, often consider producing food to sell within their community. To meet these needs, The Land Connection and the University of Illinois Extension are collaborating to host the workshop, "Is Entrepreneurial Farming for You?" on June 16 at the University of Illinois Extension, Logan County Unit Office, 980 N. Postville Drive in Lincoln.

"The four-hour workshop is designed to help people who think they might want to get their feet wet in sustainable farming learn what it takes to start and manage a farm-based business, and decide whether this is the path they are ready to take," said Deborah Cavanaugh-Grant, Small Farm and Sustainable Agriculture Extension Specialist.

The workshop will cover resource assessment, goal-setting, financial planning, and marketing options. Participants will have the opportunity to meet experienced sustainable farmers, graduates of the longer 10-month Central Illinois Farm Beginnings course, and other prospective farmers. They will learn about different successful farm enterprises, and be able to ask questions about the genesis and development of farm businesses.

"Participants in the workshop will walk through the next steps required in pursuing their farming goals and leave with a clear idea about what's possible and what the risks are, so they'll be better prepared if they decide to take the plunge," said Terra Brockman, Director of Farmer Training at The Land Connection.

Registration for each workshop is $30 and includes a light supper. All workshops are from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Payment can be done by mail, by contacting The Land Connection at 847-570-0701, or online at http://www.thelandconnection.org/farmers/dreams.cfm. If reasonable accommodations are needed in order to participate in any of the programs, call 217-241-4644.

"Is Entrepreneurial Farming for You?" was developed and will be facilitated by Terra Brockman of The Land Connection and Deborah Cavanaugh-Grant, the Small Farms Specialist with the University of Illinois Extension.