Microgrants to help young Ohio farmers weather the pandemic

<p>(Ohio News Connection) - Ohio is <a href="https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/Full_Report/Volume_1,_Chapter_2_US_State_Level/st99_2_0057_0057.pdf" target="_blank">the sixth-largest state with beginning farmers,</a> and new funding is available to help those just entering the business to survive the challenges spurred by the pandemic.<br> <br> <a href="https://beginfarming.oeffa.org/" target="_blank">The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association's Beginning Farmer Program</a> is taking applications for Pandemic Relief Microgrants ranging from $500 to $5,000.<br> <br> Program coordinator Robin Hackett explained the unpredictability and supply chain disruptions of the past two years have been especially tough for early career farmers who are more vulnerable to disruptions.<br> <br> "You don't have the capital, the infrastructure or generally the resources to adapt as a mature business would," said Hackett. "And so I've seen a bunch of young operations really have trouble, getting off the ground because of impacts caused by the pandemic."<br> <br> Eligible farmers must be located in Ohio, in operation between one to ten seasons, and using sustainable agricultural practices.<br> <br> Applications will be accepted through March 7. Learn more online at <a href="https://beginfarming.oeffa.org/" target="_blank">beginfarming.oeffa.org</a>.<br> <br> Hackett said the website also features examples of how the microgrants can be used.<br> <br> "So buying cover crop seed or compost or soil amendments," said Hackett. "Purchasing equipment or materials for an infrastructure project. In addition we're encouraging people to reach out: we can kind of talk them through whether or not what they're applying for would in fact be eligible for consideration."<br> <br> And he added that beginning farmers are an integral part of the local food system, and need supports to grow and thrive.<br> <br> "Having been a beginning farmer myself, I know getting into farming is no easy venture," said Hackett. "The future of agricul