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Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting farm stores, onsite and off. This course is free for active military service members and military veterans.

Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “Agritourism Through Farm Stores,” starts Feb. 19 and runs through August. The workshops will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option.

“In our classroom sessions, participants will hear from experts, learn business and financial skills, and obtain resources applicable to farm stores, whether it be an actual storefront, online store or a farm stand,” said Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the center.

Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up purchasing systems and more.

Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture and agritourism (such as poultry, pork, beef, beekeeping) will be available to assist participants throughout the course’s online platform.

For more information or to register, contact Bailey at 402-870-2390 or [email protected]. Participant stipends are available to cover approved expenses such as travel, meals, and child care. Individuals are welcome to attend with family members. For on-farm events, physical accommodations may be made upon request.