UT Launches Farming Fundamentals Program

Dec 27, 2021


University of Tennessee Extension is launching a new educational program uniquely designed to help beginning farmers or individuals starting a new venture in agriculture. UT Farming Fundamentals provides participants with resources and information on the essential principles needed to build a successful operation.
Program topics will include production basics, farm and financial management, marketing, taxes, business plan development, and other related topics.
“UT Farming Fundamentals is specifically set up for beginning farmers to start their business on a strong foundation and help avoid early missteps,” said program coordinator Charley Martinez, an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics. “This program was developed by agents and specialists across the state of Tennessee.”
The program launches January 1, and online registration is now open. Once registered, participants will receive a link that enables on-demand access to all the program’s videos and resources. The cost of participating in the program is $100. Participants who fully complete the program will receive a certification and, if they signed up, they will qualify for the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, which provides cost-share dollars to agricultural producers.
For more information, visit farmingfundamentals.tennessee.edu. Contact Charley Martinez with questions about the program at cmart113@utk.edu or 865-974-7414.
For more content like this, check out the latest issue of the Cooperator.
 
 

Read More News

May 04, 2026
U.S. farmers are entering the 2026 planting season with cautious optimism, guided by the USDA’s Prospective Plantings report released March 31, 2026. The report indicates that while major national acreage shifts were limited, subtle changes — particularly stronger-than-expected corn retention and modest soybean expansion — carry meaningful implications for Tennessee producers as spring planting accelerates.
Apr 21, 2026

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – “Making the best better.” That’s a motto of the Tennessee 4-H Youth Development Program. It’s also the goal for a new leadership structure for the state’s historic youth development program, operated by University of Tennessee Extension.

Apr 06, 2026
Nursery and landscape businesses provide undeniable aesthetics to our daily lives and an estimated total economic contribution of $245.2 million to the state’s economy. To stay up to date with management and production practices, landscape managers and nursery industry professionals are encouraged to set aside June 11 for the annual Tennessee Green Industry Field Day.