Clinton County Ag Entrepreneur Day

PLATTSBURG, Mo. – In April, nearly 100 landowners and agricultural entrepreneurs gathered in Plattsburg for Clinton County Ag Entrepreneur Day, an education and networking event designed to support small farms, acreage owners and agricultural entrepreneurs.

Hosted by the University of Missouri Extension Council in Clinton County, the event offered participants research-based information on topics ranging from livestock production and gardening to marketing, soil health and farm management, all delivered by MU Extension field specialists.

The program began with a presentation by agricultural business field specialist Denice Ferguson on marketing strategies for farm businesses. This was followed by a series of concurrent sessions that allowed attendees to customize their learning experience based on interests and goals.

Workshop topics included horse ownership and pasture management, small-farm livestock operations, backyard poultry, commercial vegetable production, cut-flower production, soil health, beekeeping and considerations for new acreage owners.

“The strong turnout demonstrates the growing interest in local food production, small-scale agriculture and rural entrepreneurship,” said Randa Doty, MU Extension engagement specialist. “Participants had the opportunity not only to gain valuable information from specialists, but also to connect with others in their area facing similar opportunities and challenges.”

Attendees networked with fellow producers and visited with agricultural professionals throughout the day. Lunch was provided by the Clinton County Extension Council, which created additional opportunities for conversation and relationship-building. The Clinton County Extension Council is funded by the Clinton County Extension District.

Clinton County Ag Entrepreneur Day reflects MU Extension’s commitment to providing accessible, research-based education that helps Missourians make informed decisions and build successful agricultural enterprises, Doty said. Organizers expressed appreciation to the presenters, volunteers and participants who contributed to the event’s success and helped create a valuable learning experience for the region, she said.

For information about future agricultural programs and events, contact your local MU Extension center.