The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a five-session training opportunity tailored to transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses interested in starting a new career on a farm or ranch. From noon to 2 p.m. CT on Tuesdays from April 23 to May 21, this free webinar series will provide a comprehensive overview of the opportunities, programs and services available to beginning producers in the ag industry.

Participants will explore the essentials required to start a career in farming and ranching and learn how to connect with USDA programs and services. They'll also begin to build a supportive network that will aid in the success of an agricultural operation.

These sessions will build upon each other, so, it is highly recommended that participants attend the entire webinar series. Registration is only needed once to attend all five sessions and can be done online. Session dates and presentations are as follows:

April 23

• Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison (MVAL) Overview
• Boots to Business Ag Focus
• Veterans Business Outreach Center

April 30

• Veterans Administration’s Loans
• USDA Rural Development Loans/Programs

May 7

• Urban Agriculture and Beginning Farming and Ranching

May 14

• The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Programs for Beginning Farmers Ranchers
• Risk Management (RMA) Programs for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers

May 21

• Farm Service Agency Programs and Loans for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers
• Risk Management Agency programs for Beginning Farmers Ranchers

For more information, contact Monshi Ram Ramdass. Visit the USDA Beginning or Veteran Farmers and Ranchers website for additional resources.