Outreach: A Grassroots Approach

Outreach, a grassroots approach Public Law (2008-Farm Bill) Food, Conservation, and Energy Act Contains over $300 Billion (lots of money)

As a nation… How can we get the word out? What can agencies and institutions do?

First Things First You have to have a passion You have to want to make a difference The sustainable agriculture Coalition – Had a passion – They spoke with one voice – Language in 2008 farm Bill

Getting the message out… Highways & Hedges We need a grassroots approach

Grassroots Outreach Approach Outreach is about:  Building Relationships  Recording Stories  Hanging Out  Identifying where you need to work  Finding the community gate keepers  Finding the right partnerships

Identify Where to Conduct Outreach Be honest about your workload Have I been reaching out to: Socially Disadvantaged Minority Producers Youth Women Where have I been directing money?

After Identifying Work Site Find the gate keeper A gate keeper is: – A community leader – A person that open or close the gate to the community – A person that has a passion for the community and people

A Visit to the Community A visual observation of the community with the gate keeper The gate keeper knows the culture and people A mental assessment can be obtained Make some notes You may see things that NRCS cannot service You can’t put conservation on the ground if the roof is leaking

Design of an Outreach Strategy With the gate keeper’s help:  Select a meeting site  Select a meeting date  Select a meeting time

Develop Advertising Materials ~ Flyers~ Radio programs ~ TV programs~ Word of mouth ~ Let the gate keeper be in charge

Invite Agencies and Institutions Invitations should be based on the assessment made with gate keepers Provide refreshments (recommended) Agencies need to discuss high points (only) Develop sign-in sheets that collect follow-up data – Name, phone, , amount of land, resource concern

Follow-up and Field Visits Use sign-in sheets as a tool Provide hands-on assistance with program application Provide hands-on assistance with elderly

Design System to Help Overcome Barriers Up front money is always a problem Revolving loan funds CCC-036 payment to vendors

Rural Development Needs Organized farmers Participation in farm bill grant programs Established grant writing teams