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Training & Education

There are a variety of training course and educational materials designed to assist new farmers with the start of their farm. The EDA has assembled a list educational material and courses offered, including ones organized by their staff, which can help teach a new farmer the basics that he or she will need to get their farm started and make it a success.

EDA Training 

HCEDA Courses

The HCEDA offers a variety of courses and trainings targeted at helping farmers improve their farms and business practices. For more information on these courses, please see our Special Events.

New Farm Training

Entrepreneurship Tools:  Dream, Plan, Implement

Starting a business is an exciting and challenging undertaking. But, careful planning, a good understanding of all your numbers, adaptability and perseverance are often the keys to a successful business start-up.

To help ensure your business’s success, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the basic requirements for starting a business in Maryland.

New and Beginning Farmers

New and Beginning Farmers

According to USDA statistics, half of all current farmers in the United States are likely to retire in the next decade. Enlisting and supporting new farmers is essential to the future of family farms, the farm economy and healthy rural communities. Resources in this section will help you identify programs, services, and resources for new and beginning farmers.

Agriculture Handling

Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP)

Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP) certification focuses on best agricultural practices to verify that fruits and vegetables are produced, packed, handled and stored in the safest manner possible to minimize risks of microbial food safety hazards.

Resource Conservation

National Resource and Conservation Service

Information for farmers on how to help conserve and protect the land that they own. Also provides the information on different farm incentives programs and how farmers can utilize these programs.

  • Grants & Financing

    A resource to find out more information on State, Regional, and National loans and grants for farms

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  • Diversification Ideas

    Don't put all of your eggs in one basket. Diversifying your farm's production is a great way to grow your business - and meet increasing consumer demand for fresh foods.

    Learn More