Volume
57
Issue
4
Abstract
The Beginning Farmer Resource Network of Maine (BFRN) is a model for maximizing resources and improving farmer services through increased statewide communication and collaboration among a diverse group of agricultural service providers. Formed in 2012, BFRN is a cooperative network with shared leadership and no financial overhead. In a 2018 survey regarding BFRN's impacts, 92% of members (22 of 24 responding members) said they were more effective and efficient. The survey results also indicated that over 800 farmers had made positive changes as a result of members' participation in BFRN. BFRN's continuing high level of activity is a testament to the value this network model offers to participating organizations, agencies, and institutions.
Recommended Citation
Mallory, E. B., Jackson, T. L., & Forstadt, L. A. (2019). How Forming a Cooperative Network Improved Services and Outcomes for Farmers. The Journal of Extension, 57(4), Article 18. https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/joe/vol57/iss4/18
