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The SR1 Community Oriented Opportunities for Learning (C.O.O.L.™) Conservation Project offers free training for farmers in Central Mississippi counties to learn climate-smart agricultural practices and organic farming.
All courses and learning materials will be provided in both English and Spanish to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all participants. Courses will be held online and accompanied by in-person field days. See below to learn more and sign up.
Mississippi Fact
In Mississippi, the adoption of conservation tillage practices—such as no-till and minimum-till—has significantly reduced soil erosion and improved water quality in farming regions. According to the USDA, over 1 million acres of Mississippi farmland are managed using conservation tillage (including no-till), a practice that can reduce soil erosion by up to 90% compared to conventional plowing.
No Experience Required
Whether you are a beginning farmer or a seasoned grower, there are resources and training opportunities available at every skill level to help you adopt conservation practices and successfully transition to more sustainable farming methods.
Focus Area
Application is open to everyone with emphasis on people living in the Central Mississippi Counties of Hinds, Leake, Madison, Neshoba, Rankin, Scott, and Smith are eligible. Black, Latino, and Indigenous people are encouraged to apply.
Meet a great Team
Beginner Farmers and Ranchers in the program will work with
an experienced team. They will gain expertise to prepare
and launch a farm. Participants will also gain knowledge and
experience needed to sustain a farming business.
USDA Approved
The C.O.O.L.™ Farming
project is FREE for participants thanks to a grant from the USDA. Farmers can participate at no cost to them.
2025 Project
SR1’s C.O.O.L.™ Conservation Project is designed for aspiring farmers of all experience levels, offering both foundational and advanced training on conservation methods, financial management, and hands-on use of no-till equipment.
Project Slots
12
40
Plots
12 researched based initial modules that provides great learning opportunities for both experienced and beginner farmers.
40 slots open to gain education and assistance to prepare for and launch farm businesses.
For those seeking enrichment
training - practice on land sustainability for a year.
C.O.O.L.™ Conservation Project
Are you interested in joining our C.O.O.L.™ Beginner Farmer Project? Then please fill out this form!