CADE Helping Farmers in Need of Land
The top challenge facing beginning farmers today is access to land, according to the National Young Farmers Coalition. The cost of that land is the main impediment. More farmers are relying on leasing land as a way to get started, but secure land tenure is critical to creating a viable business.
The Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship (CADE), a nonprofit farm and food business incubator based in Oneonta, is looking to match beginning farmers with local landowners willing to lease their land under long-term or low-cost agreements.
For a landowner, whether you're an active farmer or have no agricultural experience, CADE can help you understand if your goals for the land are compatible with young farmers' needs.
If you already lease your land to a farmer, but do not have a written lease, CADE can support referrals to Pace University Food and Beverage Law Clinic for pro bono legal support. Pace determines need based on a variety of factors, including client income and existing caseload.
Since 1991, CADE has offered business development services to farmers through workshops, online courses, and technical assistance on a range of topics.
From access to capital, to marketing and sales, CADE's areas of service have adapted to meet the needs of farmers as they grow and change. All of CADE's services are completely free for clients, though donations are gratefully accepted.
To schedule a consultation, contact Rhiannon Wright, program coordinator, at
rhiannon@cadefarms.org.
SAVE THE DATE
Land Leasing Basics, a free online webinar hosted by CADE and featuring Farm Commons — a legal support nonprofit.
Staff attorneys from Farm Commons will discuss the importance of a written lease, talking terms with your tenant, and common pitfalls to avoid.
The webinar is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 13, 6:00-7:00 pm. Register at cadefarms.org/workshops-and-webinars