The Farmstand: RAFI’s Blog

695 posts

Drought Conditions and Disaster Support for Southeast US Farmers

May 4, 2026
With much of the Southeast U.S. experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions, RAFI presents a new guide on drought and disaster assistance for farmers. Understand current conditions and forecasts, find emergency financial assistance opportunities, and explore mitigation strategies for smaller scale producers.
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Transitioning to Organic: Lessons from TendWell Farm

April 9, 2026
Getting your farm certified as USDA Organic takes time, investment, and careful planning — but can bring big payoffs for your farm. Danielle Hutchinson of TendWell Farms, the largest organic farm in Western NC, shares some lessons learned about organic certification.
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A Reflection on the Food & The Common Good Panel

April 6, 2026
“What I’d like to see is a shared vision and strategy of how we are going to end hunger with good food together.” The conference opened with a panel who answered the question “where are we seeing threats to the common good? And where are we seeing glimpses of hope?” Panelists included Patrick Brown, Dr. Derek Hicks, and Wendy Peters Moschetti. Each brought their own perspectives on the food system to the conversation. 
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2026 Come to the Table Conference Retrospective

April 1, 2026
This March, RAFI held its tenth Come to the Table Conference in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, tackling the theme “Food & The Common Good.” Through keynote conversations, panels, workshops, and a storytelling night, the conference was a place for stakeholders to discuss the ways in which our food systems are failing to meet this shared goal and how to take steps together to make a difference.
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USDA Moves to Delay Long-Awaited Poultry Grower Protections

March 19, 2026
USDA has proposed delaying a rule that sets fair payment standards for poultry growers by 18 months, pushing implementation to the end of 2027. The rule aims to improve transparency and income stability for contract farmers. Advocates warn the delay would postpone long-awaited protections despite evidence these standards can work.
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Four-Season Market Garden Workshop

March 5, 2026
On the brink of the 2026 growing season, RAFI teamed up with Faithfull Farms to host an in-person Four-Season Market Garden Planning Workshop led by Howard Allen.
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Kavita Koppa and Mo Murrie, RAFI co-executive directors leadership team

RAFI Announces New Co-Executive Team

January 13, 2026
RAFI is pleased to announce the appointment of Mo Murrie to join Kavita Koppa as RAFI’s new co-executive leadership team. Both directors have risen through the ranks of RAFI and are uniquely positioned to move the organization forward in partnership.
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NRCS 2026: Step-by-Step Instructions to Apply

December 22, 2025
NRCS offers cost-share support through programs like EQIP and CSP, but applying can feel confusing — and timing matters. With a new nationwide January 15, 2026 batching deadline and a new Regenerative Pilot Program, this blog explains what’s changed and how to decide your next steps.
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A Farewell to RAFI’s Longtime Pittsboro, NC Space

November 26, 2025
For 25 years, RAFI’s Pittsboro, NC space served as the home for its programs, advocacy, and daily work. In November 2025, the RAFI community gathered to honor the space as it transitions to new ownership by the Town of Pittsboro. The event brought together farmers, staff, board members, and local supporters to reflect on the organization’s history, celebrate its impact, and mark the beginning of a new chapter rooted in gratitude and continued commitment.
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