GAINESVILLE, Florida – April 17, 2025 – If you are a new farmer or rancher, USDA can help you get started or grow your operation through a variety of programs and services, from farm loans to crop insurance and conservation programs to disaster assistance. USDA considers anyone who has operated a farm or ranch for less than ten years to be a beginning farmer or rancher.   

The first step is to find your local USDA Service Center by visiting farmers.gov/service-center-locator. Call your Farm Service Agency (FSA) office to make an appointment to establish a farm number. FSA staff will work with you one-on-one to review your documents and register your farm with FSA. Registering your farm allows you to apply for FSA and other USDA programs.  

After your farm is registered, you can meet with FSA and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) staff to discuss your business and conservation goals. FSA and NRCS staff can help you determine program eligibility and walk you through the application process.  

Free Beginning Farmer and Rancher (BFR) Webinar
If you’ve operated a farm or ranch for less than 10 years, join the National BFR Team for a Free BFR Webinar on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm, for an overview of special USDA assistance and resources that are available to you. This session will provide information on various programs, how to connect with staff, and information you will need to get started.

For more info, visit USDA Beginning Farmers & Ranchers website at www.farmers.gov/your-business/beginning-farmers.

A farmer prunes tomatoes. Photo credit: Farmers.gov

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