Jackson speaks with BDN about Maine Agricultural Trades Show

Tori Jackson, an associate professor of agriculture and natural resources with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, was quoted in a Bangor Daily News preview of the annual Maine Agricultural Trades Show. The event runs Jan. 9–11 at the Augusta Civic Center and will feature displays of equipment, lectures, training sessions and discussions, as well as a series of free workshops presented by the Beginning Farmer Resource Network for new and aspiring farmers, the article states. According to the most recent USDA census, close to one-third of Maine farmers have 10 or fewer years of experience on their farms, which is the definition of a beginning farmer. “Starting a farm is not an easy or clear process, so we hope to make the path simpler and streamlined for Mainers who are still in their first decade of farming,” said Jackson, who also serves as Beginning Farmer Resource Network chair. “UMaine Extension is one of 25 agricultural agencies and organizations working together to expedite the opportunities for aspiring and beginning farmers, and helping them connect to resources for farm business success.”