Oregon State University Extension Service in Josephine County is inviting aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs to take a closer look at what it truly takes to launch and sustain a small farm enterprise. Beginning March 11, the organization will host a three-part educational program titled Exploring the Small Farm Dream Series, designed to help participants evaluate the realities, responsibilities, and rewards of farm ownership.
The series will meet on three consecutive Wednesdays, March 11, 18, and 25, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sessions will be held at the Redwood Grange, located at 1830 Redwood Avenue in Grants Pass. Light refreshments, including sparkling water and snacks, will be provided.
According to OSU Extension, the course is structured as a cohort-based experience, allowing participants to work through the learning process together while building connections with others who share similar goals. The program blends creative exercises, research tools, and guided class discussions to help individuals assess their skills, available resources, and long-term readiness for entering the agricultural marketplace.
Organizers say the series is intended for a broad range of participants. It is open to individuals considering full-time farming, those exploring part-time agricultural work while maintaining outside employment, career changers, and hobby farmers who are thinking about transitioning informal growing operations into structured business ventures. By the end of the program, attendees should have a clearer understanding of the planning, marketing, and management considerations involved in running a viable small farm business.
A key feature of the course is the opportunity to learn directly from local farm-business owners. Their firsthand perspectives are intended to provide practical insight into financial planning, production challenges, and the day-to-day realities of farm management in Southern Oregon’s climate and economic environment. The series also emphasizes relationship-building, giving participants the chance to network with fellow community members who are exploring similar agricultural ambitions.
Pre-registration is required for attendance. The cost is $60 for an individual participant or $75 for two farm partners registering together. Additional information and online registration are available through the official program page at beav.es/Srd, hosted by the Oregon State University system. Those seeking more details may also contact OSU Extension in Josephine County directly at 541.241.3050.
Accommodation requests related to disabilities must be submitted by March 4, 2026. Requests can be directed to Clay Guetling at 541.241.3050 or via email at clay.guetling@oregonstate.edu.
As interest in local food systems, self-sufficiency, and small-scale agriculture continues to grow, Extension officials say educational programs such as this one aim to provide practical tools rather than idealized notions of farm life. By combining structured instruction with peer collaboration, the Exploring the Small Farm Dream Series seeks to help participants determine whether their vision of farm ownership can translate into a sustainable and thoughtfully planned enterprise.