When the Government Pulled the Plug, She Didn’t: Local Farmer Keeps Beginner Program Alive Against the Odds

Just as the Beginner Farmer Program was gaining momentum—entering its second year of a five-year initiative under the USDA’s American Rescue Plan—unexpected federal action from the Trump administration brought it all to a halt.

The program, which pairs experienced farmers with young, aspiring growers for hands-on training and support, suddenly had its funding frozen.

That left Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County, the organization running the program, with no choice but to pause operations—leaving 11 mentor farmers and 11 mentees stranded.

Brenda Miller, the owner and founder of Bobolink Farm, located in Liberty, NY, appeared on Radio Chatskill to talk about the impact to young farmers and what might come next.

Image: Founder and Farmer, Brenda Miller started Bobolink Farm in Liberty, NY, in 2020, where she grows and sells seasonal diversified vegetables and herbs. (Credit: Sullivan County Farmers Markets)