Sometimes the best learning method is a conversation with someone who’s been there, done that. Now in its 12th year, the Cultivating Master Farmer program has provided just that: expert farm and family mentorship from folks who have walked the walk. This unique mentoring program links young farmers with a wealth of information from Prairie Farmer’s Master Farmers.

Classes of approximately 10 young farmers (21 to 35 years old) and 10 Master Farmers are selected for the two-year program, which features six ag-related events, including a summer tour. The Class of 2017, which graduated in July, toured the St. Louis Science Center, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center and Growmark’s Bussen Fertilizer Spur on the Mississippi River, and met with agriculture professionals at The Maschhoffs. They also heard from acclaimed speakers on the topics of estate and succession planning, diversification on the farm, marketing strategies, how to give back, and managing working relationships with family members.

Like previous classes, incoming CMF members will have plenty of opportunities to hear from a top-notch slate of speakers. However, the real backbone of the program is the round-table discussion and relationship building, where young farmers learn from Master Farmers and vice versa. Upon the completion of the two-year program, participants will have developed lasting relationships that continue to yield solid farm advice even after the program’s conclusion.

Young farmers have until March 31 to apply for an opening in the Class of 2019. Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
• reside in Illinois
• between the ages of 21 and 35 as of Dec. 31, 2016
• actively engaged in production agriculture
• committed to actively participating in the two-year program
• couples encouraged to apply

The Class of 2019 will be selected in April. The inaugural meeting will be held July 19 at Farm Credit Illinois, Mahomet. The CMF application is available on select sponsors’ websites, including ilfb.org, PrairieFarmer.com, growmark.com, 1stfarmcredit.com and farmcredit.com, or email Prairie Farmer editor Holly Spangler at [email protected]. The CMF program is sponsored by 1st Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Illinois, Growmark, Illinois Farm Bureau, Monsanto and Prairie Farmer.

MASTER FARM: During the summer tour, the Class of 2017 enjoyed a picnic at the farm of Don and Karen Schrader, Master Farmers from Waterloo.