Organic Study Circles: Lessons learned from peer-to-peer extension programming in Pennsylvania
Sustainable Agriculture and Natural Resources
Anna Hodgson
Field and Forage Crops Educator
Penn State Extension
Mifflinburg
Abstract
Organic farmers face unique, complex challenges that are often best addressed through peer-to-peer learning. To facilitate this, Penn State Extension educators developed Organic Study Circles that focused on organic grain production in central Pennsylvania. The workshops provided a collaborative environment for transitioning and certified organic farmers to brainstorm solutions with peers and became a regional network for organic farmers. In 2022, we received a $42,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to expand organic study circles to more locations and cover more agricultural topics. Organic Study Circles are offered in a restaurant setting or on-farm with a tour component and cover topics related to organic grain, dairy, and fruit and vegetable production. Occasionally, a guest speaker or expert is invited to help facilitate the discussion and answer questions. From 2023 to 2026, we delivered nineteen in-person workshops and two webinars, reaching a total of 519 participants across central and southeastern Pennsylvania. Data from post-workshop evaluations indicated that 100% (n=272) of participants would recommend these programs to other organic farmers. Participants identified listening to peer discussions (88%, n=117) and meeting other farmers (77%, n=103) as the most beneficial aspects of the program. As a result of attending an organic study circle workshop, 46% (n=79) indicated that they will implement the practices discussed in the study circles to improve their organic farming operations. We continuously apply farmer feedback to improve the organic study circle workshops and cover topics of interest in organic agriculture.
Authors: Anna Hodgson, Ashley Isaacson
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Anna Hodgson Field and Forage Crops Educator, Penn State Extension, Pennsylvania, 17844
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Ashley Isaacson Field and Forage Crops Educator, Penn State Extension, Pennsylvania, 17018