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Extension educator seeks input on small‑farmer needs, training and land access
Summary
Alexis Barnes, local food systems and small farms educator with Extension, presented a physical needs assessment and a QR code, said she will shift programming to improve enrollment and land‑access supports, and reported the Illinois extension director will visit a proposed research farm site in April.
Alexis Barnes, who introduced herself to the committee as the local food systems and small farms educator with Extension, told members she is circulating a printed needs‑assessment and QR code to collect farmer input on training and technical assistance needs.
Barnes said the existing 'urban' label for a training program has limited enrollment and that cost and land access are barriers for prospective participants. She said she is exploring incubator plots and discussions with the Forest Preserve and that Extension has submitted grant proposals to help restore the research farm on the property referenced in the packet as "Peckin 38," with an Illinois extension director scheduled to visit the site in April.
Barnes asked whether the committee wanted the program expanded beyond specialty crops to include row crops and livestock; she said she is willing to broaden programming to meet local needs and that the needs‑assessment will guide those decisions. Committee members thanked her for the update and noted Extension’s help on soil health and tree care in prior interactions.
Barnes offered to provide technical assistance to farms during the upcoming slow season and encouraged committee members and growers to complete the assessment by using the paper forms or the QR code.
