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Mentorship

Get personalized guidance, technical assistance, and support as you transition to sustainable farming practices in Alabama.

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Practical, farmer-tested resources to help Alabama growers improve their operations and increase profitability.
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A collection of documents related to the growing, safe handling and storage of food.
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CRAFT

The Alabama CRAFT Network is made by farmers for farmers, focusing our programming for small farmers, landless farmers, and large-scale producers who are interested in sustainable or organic practices.
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Graze

ASAN’s signature farm-to-fork celebration showcasing collaborations between Alabama farmers and chefs. Experience amazing food, live music, and community while supporting sustainable agriculture.
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A yearly gathering of Alabama’s most awesome agriculture specialists and farmers, coming together to share knowledge and resources to strengthen the community as a whole.
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NRCS

Natural Resources Conservation Service, formerly known as the Soil Conservation Service, is an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture that provides technical assistance to farmers and other private landowners and managers.
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TOPP

TOPP is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources.

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ASAN

Mentorship Program

Support Our Work

We are a farmer-centered organization welcoming all who wish to implement, expand, and support sustainable agricultural practices in the state of Alabama. We prioritize the perspectives of BIPOC, women, LGBTQ+, and other underrepresented farmers who root their livelihoods in sustainable agriculture. To move forward successfully, we partner with consumers, advocates, and other organizations committed to supporting the Alabama food system, sustainability, and environmental justice.
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Network & Community

Connect with a statewide network of like-minded farmers, advocates, and supporters who share your commitment to sustainable agriculture and social justice.

Educational Resources

Access hands-on training, workshops, and practical resources designed to help you implement and expand sustainable farming practices.

Advocacy & Voice

Join a collective voice working to shape policies and systems that support sustainable agriculture and advance equity in Alabama’s food system.

About the Program

The Transition to Organic Partnership Program

The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) farmer-to-farmer mentorship program builds connections between experienced organic producers and producers transitioning to organic, supports the transition process, and creates a stronger network of organic producers across the United States.
Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network is proud to manage the TOPP mentorship program for Alabama. This year-long partnership between mentors and mentees aims to help transitioning farmers successfully achieve certified organic production while building lasting relationships within Alabama’s sustainable agriculture community.
ASAN provides technical assistance to mentees, including help with completing an Organic Systems Plan (OSP), developing Conservation Activity Plans, and preparing for organic certification audits. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities of farming in Alabama and tailor our support to meet the specific needs of our state’s agricultural landscape.

For Mentees

What You’ll Receive

Transitioning producers gain invaluable support, guidance, and development through our mentorship program.
As a mentee, you will:

  • Work with an experienced organic producer who understands Alabama’s growing conditions
  • Receive personalized guidance on transitioning your operation to organic practices
  • Get technical assistance with organic certification paperwork and requirements
  • Access educational resources and training opportunities
  • Join a supportive network of sustainable farmers across Alabama
  • Receive education stipends to support your learning journey
Who Should Apply

Our program welcomes all types of agricultural producers in Alabama who are:

  • Currently transitioning to organic or interested in beginning the transition
  • Committed to completing the certification process
  • Ready to engage in a year-long mentorship relationship
  • Willing to implement sustainable and organic farming practices
Ready to get started?

Contact us to learn more about becoming a mentee in our program.

For Mentors

Make a Difference

Mentors play a crucial role in helping new organic producers succeed while growing Alabama’s organic movement. As a mentor, you have the opportunity to guide and support producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and industry best practices gained from your experience farming in Alabama.

What We Provide
  • Comprehensive mentor training and ongoing support
  • Compensation for your time and expertise
  • Travel reimbursement for farm visits and meetings
  • Connection to a network of experienced mentors
  • Resources and materials to support your mentoring efforts
Who Can Be a Mentor

We welcome applications from certified organic producers who:

  • Have experience with organic certification and production in Alabama
  • Are passionate about supporting the next generation of sustainable farmers
  • Can commit to regular communication and farm visits with their mentee
  • Want to contribute to the growth of Alabama’s organic farming community

All crop and livestock producers are welcome to apply!

Interested in becoming a mentor?

We’d love to hear from you. Contact us to learn more about this rewarding opportunity.

Building Community

Our mentorship program creates lasting connections between farmers across Alabama, fostering a supportive community where knowledge, resources, and experiences are shared freely.

Practical Support

Mentees receive hands-on guidance tailored to Alabama’s specific growing conditions, climate challenges, and market opportunities.

Certification Success

With expert guidance and technical assistance, mentees are better prepared to navigate the organic certification process successfully.

Economic Impact

By supporting the transition to organic certification, we help farmers access premium markets and improve the economic viability of their operations.

Get Involved

Whether you’re interested in receiving mentorship or sharing your expertise as a mentor, we encourage you to get involved with ASAN’s mentorship program.

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