Episode 338. Lessons Learned from a Southern Farmer: Violet Keys of Mississippi

In this episode of Voices from the Field, NCAT Sustainable Agriculture Specialist Felicia Bell talks with beginning farmer Violet Keys about the journey that took her from a career in the military to beginning Synergy in the Garden, a 6-acre urban agriculture operation in Jackson, Mississippi.

Violet discusses overcoming her nervousness as she begins her farm – where she plans to grow medicinal herbs, cut flowers, and other crops. She and Felicia also talk about creating a business plan and utilizing USDA financial and planning assistance. Violet shares her dream of creating a “healing space” for veterans that is also an asset to her community.

Related ATTRA Resources:

• Financing Your Farm: Guidance for Beginning Farmers
• Selling to Local and Regional Markets: Barriers and Opportunities for Beginning Farmers
• Veteran Resources
• Farm Start-Up
• Farmer Well-Being

Contact Felicia Bell at feliciab@ncat.org.

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You can get in touch with NCAT/ATTRA specialists and find access to our trusted, practical sustainable-agriculture publications, webinars, videos, and other resources at ATTRA.NCAT.ORG.