Texas AgrAbility and the BattleGround to Breaking Ground Project in collaboration with the Williamson County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Stiles Farm hosted a farm tour and agriculture business workshop in on November 30 & December 1, 2018.
Stiles Farm Tour
The Stiles Farm Foundation Farm Tour was hosted on November 30 from 1-5 p.m. in Thrall, Texas. Ryan Collette, farm manager for Stiles Farm, toured participants around the farm and highlighted the different agriculture enterprises they are involved in. Stiles Farm has a cattle operation, row crops, and wildlife.
Annemarie, wildlife intern for Stiles Farm, highlights the wildlife habitat restoration and public hunting lands on Stiles Farm.
Ryan Colette shows participants different cattle and paddocks on the farm, while demonstrating grazing and animal nutrition. Ryan also did a cattle handling and working demonstration for participants.
Georgetown Ag Workshop
The BattleGround to Breaking Ground Free Agriculture Business Workshop was held on December 1 in Georgetown hosted by Farm Credit Bank of Texas. Tyler Coufal, Williamson County AgriLife Extension Agent, organized the event with Texas AgrAbility and BattleGround to Breaking Ground Staff.
The workshop highlighted a veteran farmer rancher panel. Four veterans in production agriculture shared their experiences, tips for beginning farmers, and why they believe veterans benefit from farming and ranching.
Dr. Jason Johnson, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Associate Professor and Extension Economist, presented on ideas for started rural agriculture operations and business planning basics.
Participants were able to connect with local resources and agency personnel, as well as hear presentations on programs available.
Justin Duncan, with NCAT ATTRA, shared sustainable agriculture information with attendees.
Participants networking with TDA personnel Rob Barthen and Shane Teeter.
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and Rural Development representatives Connie Ramirez and Rose Gonzales connect with participants.