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Hiring: Farm Viability Program Planner – MDAR

Farm Viability Program Planner

We have reposted this position at the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) to coordinate the Farm Viability Enhancement Program and provide stewardship and succession planning support to Massachusetts farmers!

This is an exciting opportunity to coordinate and expand this established Farm Viability program that has a significant impact on the viability of farm businesses through direct financial assistance, business planning, capital grants, and short-term land protection. Through this position you will engage with and support Massachusetts farmers, coordinate contractors to provide business planning, financial and technical assistance, help steward farmland under short-term easements, and provide succession planning training and resources to guide the transfer of farms to the next generation. You will also help establish a new program to expand assistance to farm families transitioning their farm to the next generation or successor, in collaboration with other organizations. We’re looking for an experienced candidate with an understanding of the agricultural industry in Massachusetts and the needs of farm businesses that is motivated to build relationships with farmers and service providers to help keep farms productive and viable.

The Farm Viability Enhancement Program (FVEP) combines business planning, technical assistance, grants, and short-term covenants to help increase farm viability and has served as model for other state programs. Since 1996, FVEP has provided approximately $21 million in grants to 455 farms and protected 44,713 acres of farmland, in addition to providing valuable business and technical assistance that has contributed to these farms’ success. The Agricultural Business Training Program (ABTP) provides courses, trainings and workshops throughout the state in partnership with organizations and experienced instructors to response to identified needs of Massachusetts farmers. MDAR’s Viability and ABT Programs are within the Division of Agricultural Conservation Assistance at MDAR and contribute to the Department’s overall mission to ensure the long-term viability of agriculture in Massachusetts.

Please note – This position is posted to be based out of the Department of Agricultural Resources’ West Springfield office, but there is flexibility for the right candidate to work out of any of MDAR’s regional offices –Boston, Southborough, West Springfield, or Lakeville – with a hybrid work schedule that includes telecommuting and work in the field to visit farms throughout the state.  It is set up to start out as a contract position with the goal of transitioning into a full-time benefited employee at MDAR. Apply through the requisition link below to be considered for this rewarding opportunity to work with an amazing team that is passionate about helping farmers succeed!

For a complete job description and instructions on her to apply click here.          

Please note that requisitions (former Posting IDs) will remain open for 90 days; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days of the posting

The MassCareers job posting is available by clicking on the Requisition Link. 

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