Generation Next online agricultural business startup school to begin Feb. 18

Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-859-5752, paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu

Contact: Megan Clayton, 361-265-9203, Megan.Clayton@ag.tamu.edu

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and others will present the Generation Next: Our Turn to Ranch online school for agricultural business startups from Feb. 18- May 12.

“This course is ideal for those who have recently purchased or inherited land to be used for agriculture or those who already have an agricultural operation and plan to add to it,” said Dr. Megan Clayton, AgriLife Extension range specialist, Corpus Christi.

The course will consist of 12 webinar classes and instruction will be provided by experts on the topics addressed.

“Participants will learn about important subjects such as business types, taxes and insurance needs, and financing programs and options,” Clayton said. “They will also gain ideas that can be applied to a new operation or an existing one, such as learning about options for setting up grazing and wildlife leases and smaller niche market opportunities. Participants will also be exposed to the latest land management tools and techniques.”

She said there will be one online topic to complete per week and each lesson will take approximately one hour.

“The course is designed so you can participate from your own computer and on your own time schedule,” Clayton said. “There also will be an optional in-person training opportunity May 3-4 at a central location to be determined.”

Cost is $120, which includes the in-person training. To register, go to https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/productListingDetails/2433 or call 979-845-2604.

Weekly course topics will be:

— Setting up a New Agriculture Business.

— Understanding Business Taxes 101.

— Business Insurance Needs.

— Finances: Loans and Record Keeping.

— How to set up Grazing and Wildlife Lease Agreements.

— Ecotourism Opportunities.

— Planning Land Use and Surveying Your Resources.

— Understanding Market Fluctuations.

— Alternative Ranching Operations.

— Agricultural Apps for Smartphones and Tablets.

— Land Management Toolbox.

During the week of May 6, there will be a targeted wrap-up session. Participants receive a Generation Next T-shirt and certificate of completion.

For more information, contact Clayton at Megan.Clayton@ag.tamu.edu or 361-265-9203.

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