South Carolina New and Beginning Farmer Program
Search for Excellence in Young, Beginning, or Small Farmers/Ranchers
Ben Boyles
Extension Agent
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service
Rock Hill
Team Members:
Boyles, B*1, Vossbrinck, D2
-
Agribusiness Extension Agent, Clemson University, York, South Carolina, 29745
-
Program Manager, Clemson University, York, South Carolina, 29745
Abstract
The future of South Carolina agriculture depends on the development of new and beginning farmers. Many aspiring producers enter the agricultural space with strong interest but have limited knowledge of farm business planning, management, and available agricultural support resources. At the same time, a significant portion of the state’s established farmers are approaching retirement age, creating both challenges and opportunities for farm transition, land access, and long-term food system sustainability.
To address these needs, Clemson Extension delivered the South Carolina New and Beginning Farmer Program (SCNBFP) from 2022 - 2025 with grant support from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. SCNBFP provided education and networking opportunities designed to equip emerging farmers with the skills needed to establish viable agricultural enterprises.
SCNBFP used a comprehensive educational model combining cohort-based training, advanced workshops, networking opportunities, and individualized technical assistance. Four annual cohort programs were delivered including 40 full-day workshops and covering farm business planning, financial management, agricultural marketing, soil health, integrated pest management, and regulatory compliance. Participants applied practical planning tools to develop or refine farm business concepts and plans.
Beyond introductory training, the program delivered 53 advanced workshops for farmers seeking to strengthen and expand their operations. Additional program components included statewide Farmer Resource Rodeo events connecting producers with agricultural agencies and service providers, participant scholarships for professional development opportunities, and mini-grants that expanded beginning farmer education through partner organizations.
From 2022 - 2025, SCNBFP delivered 57 workshops, 37 webinars, and more than 17,000 participant learning hours, reaching over 1,500 individuals statewide. The annual cohort program served 209 beginning farmers and graduated 185 participants, achieving a 94% graduation rate.
Evaluation results demonstrated strong outcomes. Among cohort graduates, 126 participants started or prepared to start farm businesses, 180 improved the quality of their farm business plans, and 150 strengthened professional networks within the agricultural community. Participants also reported increased confidence in financial planning, marketing strategy development, and enterprise decision-making.
By strengthening agribusiness knowledge, expanding professional networks, and connecting farmers to critical resources, SCNBFP is helping grow the next generation of farmers in South Carolina.
Entry