Connecticut’s new and beginning farmers face numerous tasks and expenses when starting their farm businesses. To support these farmers, UConn Extension’s Solid Ground program offers a comprehensive suite of workshops and programming. One of the standout offerings each winter for new farmers is the Ag-Mechanics series.
Ag-Mechanics workshops focus on equipping farmers with practical skills essential for their farms. Classes such as “2 Stroke Engine Repairs,” “Basic Carpentry,” and “Welding for Beginners” help new farmers become more efficient and self-sufficient in maintaining and building farm infrastructure.
The workshops are intentionally kept inexpensive and small, with no more than 12 participants, to ensure hands-on learning experiences and to keep classes affordable. Though the Solid Ground team loves sharing knowledge, they ask that individuals are mindful and only sign up if they are running a farm business- many of the classes fill quickly.
Each class is led by local experts, often with agricultural backgrounds, ensuring relevance and practical application. Safety is a priority, and participants gain confidence by performing tasks under the guidance of an instructor. Many farmers have successfully applied their new skills, from felling trees with chainsaws, to welding farm signs, constructing basic frames, and wiring electrical systems.
Given that many new farmers do not come from agricultural backgrounds, these workshops provide exposure to vital skills that might otherwise be unfamiliar. Participants frequently find themselves applying what they’ve learned within a year, saving money and enhancing their farm operations.
One participant praised the welding class, saying, “The instructor was very knowledgeable. His instruction was concise and direct, which I really liked. I also liked that he kept the lecture time minimal, dedicating most of the time to actual welding. Everyone got lots of hands-on practice. I also liked that he comes from a farming family so he related to the practical applications that we might face. Excellent workshop!”
While some topics are offered annually, the program also rotates workshops to address the evolving needs of farmers. Participants can also suggest new topics based on their current challenges. Past workshops have included:
- Walk-Behind Tractor Training
- Tractor Implements and Repairs
- Chainsaw Workshop
- Power Tools and Carpentry Basics
- Field Irrigation
- Beginner and Advanced Welding
The series of classes opens for registration in the fall with a listing of available classes. For more information about Ag Mechanic trainings and to explore the various offerings available for Connecticut farmers from Solid Ground, visit solidground.extension.uconn.edu.
Article by Becca Toms