FarmNet and FarmLink

2007 Impact statement
  • Knoblauch, Wayne Alan

abstract

FarmNet and FarmLink respond to New York farm families` requests for information and one-on-one counseling for farm financial and farm family problems. We also assist in the development of succession plans and business plans for the future sustainability of the farm.

submitted by

issue being addressed

Variable farm prices and weather extremes place additional stress on farm financial performance and family tensions. These farm families need a source of professional, unbiased assistance to deal with these problems. For the past 20 years, we have been providing assitance to New York farm families. Keeping familes healthy and on the farm, thereby contributing to the economy, are goals of the program.

response

We have responded to over 2,500 requests for information and responded by conducting over 800 one-on-one consultations. We accomplish this through a network of consultants for all farms in New York.

impact assessment

Over half of the farms we worked with planned on not only staying in business, but expanding their business. Only 12 percent of all farms found that exiting was their best option.
These expanding farms added 56 jobs to the economy. We assisted in transferring 65 farms to the next generation and developed business plans for more than 125 farms.

academic priority area

topic description

Farm and Family Sustainability and Well Being

has geographic focus

more links 30 more

funding source description

  • New York State Office of Mental Health
  • New York Farm Viability Institute
  • New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets

collaborators

Cornell Cooperative Extension

key personnel

  • Karen Mastronardi
  • Angela Gloy
  • Ed Staehr
  • Racheal Bothwell
  • Jeff Perry

mission focus

From CALS annual faculty reporting. Imported on August 5, 2008