Two Decorah residents selected for Practical Farmers of Iowa program

Practical Farmers of Iowa has selected 26 beginning farmers to enroll into its Savings Incentive Program, including two farmers from Decorah.

Hannah Breckbill of Decorah and Marty Grimm of Decorah will be in the Savings Incentive Program from January 2015 through December 2016

The two-year program pairs beginning and aspiring farmers with experienced mentors; provides targeted learning opportunities; offers business planning support and guidance; and gives participants the chance to save money and receive matching funds while learning how to build a profitable farm.

The enterprises run by the 26 selected farmers range from adding small grains and hay, to raising rabbits and sheep, to specializing in cut flowers and trees. One farmer wants to start an orchard, and several participants hope to add bees to their farms. In addition, six enrollees are refugee farmers working with Lutheran Services in Iowa's Global Greens program, including four from Burundi, one from Rwanda and one from Burma.