Michigan Food & Farming Systems is a statewide, non-profit organization connecting beginning and historically underserved farmers to each other and resource opportunities; ensuring social justice, environmental stewardship, and profitability. 
Dear MIFFS Supporters,

Happy New Year! We have many exciting events to start the new year running! MIFFS is starting the application process for the Michigan Family Farms Conference Event Coordinator. If you (or someone you know) is interested in working with us on the amazing annual event, check out the information here about the position and how to apply. We will be accepting applications until February 12. MIFFS will be hosting a Virtual Michigan Farmers Forum and the next listening session next week. Registration for the events and a couple other items to note:

  • The next Michigan Family Farms Conference listening session will be held on on Tuesday January 12 at 10AM with a focus on farmer feedback. We are committed to hearing from those that have been a part of the conference over the years to help inform changes that move the conference forward to create a more diverse, inclusive, and equity-focused conference with more community representation guiding the way. Register for the event here.
  • If you are interested in coordinating a community feedback session please contact us via email at info@miffs.org or call us at (517)-709-8271.

  • MIFFS, North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program (NCR SARE) and Michigan State University Extension are teaming up to host a Virtual Michigan Farmer Forum on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021 from 1-3 p.m. via Zoom. Come hear from Michigan farmers that have used SARE grants and resources to conduct research and education projects on their farms. Speakers will be providing their first-hand accounts of their experience applying for SARE grants, implementing their projects, reporting their results and how their projects have impacted their farms. Register for the event here.

  • The 2021 MSU Organic Farmer Training Program (OFTP) will be a 50/50 mix of field and online learning, including 11 hands-on days at the Michigan State University Student Organic Farm, 6 field trip days and 16 interactive online class days. Check out thfull schedule here. Click here, email msufarm@msu.edu or call/text Katie Brandt at 616-885-7776 for more information.

  • MIFFS Land Chat is a Michigan based online forum to connect with those who have land to lease or sell with those who need land to farm. It's that simple. Post what you have or what you need and be as descriptive as possible. For those who have land...posts will includes land size, location, a short history of land, soil type (if known), cost (if set) or state open to negotiation. Are there any requirements for the farmer leasing land? Any other details a farmer needs to know before connecting. Those looking for land... post would include how much land you are looking for, location, cost (if set), specific farms criteria. Any other requirement for the land you leased or purchased. Connect to the Facebook page here

Thank you all for your support. This is a difficult time; remember to take time out to rest, relax, reflect, and most importantly reenergize!

Stay Safe.
With Energy,
The MIFFS Team
MIFFS Newsletter top 5 Workshops/Webinars:

  • Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) can’t-miss conference offers up to six days of learning, sharing, and networking for farmers, gardeners, homesteaders, and others committed to local food, sustainable agriculture, and green living. This online event will feature educational workshop video sessions, inspiring keynote speakers, in-depth Food and Farm School classes, an interactive virtual trade show, and fun and engaging networking opportunities. More info and registration here

  • Underground Innovations will be shifting to a virtual format held over the course of three dates. Three half-day sessions will be held through the winter featuring a great lineup of speakers and some creative attempts to connect with fellow attendees. One flat-rate registration fee of $30 covers attendance at all three sessions. More info here

  • Produce Safety Training Course. MSU Extension recently announced a FREE, three-week produce safety training course designed specifically for farm supervisors. The Michigan On-Farm Produce Safety team will offer six FREE Online Produce Safety Rule Grower Trainings this fall and winter. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Register here

  • Enjoy the 2021 Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference from the comfort of your own home. This year's conference offers farm education and virtual spaces to gather with peers. So, put on some comfy pants, make some tea, grab that favorite blanket and settle in for a different kind of farm conference. February 17-21. More info and registration here

  • Loan Preparation for New and Beginning Farmers-Online Series. The program will share the why, what, and how’s of being ready for financing. The lender panel, featuring GreenStone Farm Credit Services, US Farm Service Agency, and Northern Initiatives, will provide answers to questions about lending. In January, February, and March, the lenders will provide additional details on financing a farm. This series is offered at no-cost through the Michigan Good Food Fund, MSU Product Center, MSU Extension, and partners. More info here

For more workshops and webinars offered, click over to our website here (https://www.miffs.org/workshops)
Phone: 517.709.8271 Email: info@miffs.org