In this episode, Margo Hale, NCAT's Southeast Regional Director and Director of NCAT's Armed to Farm Program, talks with Eric Grandon and Sara Creech. Eric is an Army veteran and owner of Sugar Bottom Farm in Ovapa, West Virginia. Sara is an Air Force veteran and owner of Blue Yonder Organic Farm in North Salem, Indiana. Both are alumni of NCAT's Armed to Farm program, a week-long, sustainable agriculture training for military veterans.

Eric and Sara share their experiences in accessing various USDA programs. They talk about the programs and services they have utilized, how those programs have helped them reach their farm goals, and tips for veterans and other farmers as they navigate USDA programs.

This podcast was supported with funding by USDA's Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement.

For more information on this topic, you can contact Margo Hale directly at [email protected].

Related ATTRA Resources:

NCAT's Armed to Farm: Website / Facebook

Veteran Resources

Financing Your Farm: Guidance for Beginning Farmers

Financing Your Farm: Guidance for Beginning Farmers

Federal Conservation Resources for Sustainable Farming and Ranching

High Tunnels and the NRCS

Other Resources:

Eric's Sugar Bottom Farm: Website / Facebook

Sara's Blue Yonder Organic Farm: Website / Facebook

USDA Veteran Initiatives

USDA Service Center Locator

USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA)

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

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Southwest Regional Office: Website /