Agriculture Programs

Listed below are programs offered through the Lauderdale County Extension. For more detailed information about the program contact the person listed with the program or the Lauderdale County Extension.

Farm Management

Financial Planning and Marketing Help is Available
From the MANAGE Program

MANAGE was designed specifically to help Tennessee farm families carefully evaluate their situation and assist them in improving their quality of life. The MANAGE program is conducted by the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service. Over 8,000 Tennessee farm families have participated in the intensive farm and financial planning phase of MANAGE.

The MANAGE program helps families analyze their total farming business so they can make informed decisions regarding their future. Staff trained in farm and financial management help families:

• review their current financial situation
• capitalize on strengths and reduce weaknesses in the farm business
• develop individualized farm and financial plans
• explore alternatives both on and off the farm
• evaluate capital investment opportunities including land and/or machinery purchases
• analyze likely consequences of changing the scope of enterprises
• determine appropriate production practices

In addition to individualized farm and financial planning assistance, the Agricultural Extension Service is offering dozens of workshops and other educational programs to help farmers improve their financial situation. For example, workshops are available on a variety of topics including improved marketing, goal-setting, and strategic planning.

Although the MANAGE program will not remove uncertainty about the future, it can provide farm families with a clear understanding of their current financial situation and help them evaluate their alternatives for the future. Making informed decisions today may be the best way to prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities. The educational program is offered at no cost to participating farm families in all 95 Tennessee counties. Families are not formally enrolled in the program.

To become involved or to obtain additional information, contact the Lauderdale County Agricultural Extension Service or call the toll-free MANAGEment Information Line at 1-800-345-0561. The MANAGE program provides individualized and unbiased information. All financial and personal information will remain confidential.