Topic to sell direct to customers

By Robert Williams

Editor

The University of Minnesota Extension will offer a free online class to farm operators on how best to price and market farm goods direct to customers, hosted by Lida Farm owner Ryan Pesch.

The series of three classes will be on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. on Feb. 6, 13 and 20. 

A self-guided workbook will be available to apply the knowledge to your own operation and the entire series is free. 

Register at https://z.umn.edu/direct-to-consumer

“Farm operators typically focus on the production side of farming and have less experience with setting retail prices and actively marketing products,” said Ryan Pesch, Extension ag business management educator. “Whether you are a beginning operator looking to get started at your local farmers market or a seasoned veteran looking to sell some quarters of beef on the side, this class will give you the basics to get up and running in 2024.”

Pesch and his family run their own vegetable stand at Lida Farm, seven miles southwest of Vergas, along with weekly displays at the Pelican Rapids Farmers Market, Manna Food Co-op in Detroit Lakes and other retail outlets. He also hosts summer workshops as part of the Lake Agassiz chapter of the statewide Sustainable Farming Association and is a must-stop during the annual Deep Roots Festival.

Extension ag business management assists producers with a range of business management issues. 

Visit https://extension.umn.edu/managing-farm to find more information and other events.