How the AGUA Project is reshaping the farm
Helping Farmers Nationwide
50
+People trained by NLFR on the AGUA Project
15
+Young Agricultural Leaders gained natural resources management knowledge
2
Demonstration sites added to the project for water conservation practices
NLFR is Working with Local Communities on Water Sustainability
NLFR'S WORK UNDERWAY
Training and Education:
In the context of historic drought and climate change impacting water resources for NM farmers, NLFR, through Project AGUA, is offering hands-on Training Days at new Farm Demonstration Sites (e.g. Wagner Farms and Donald Martinez Jr. Farm). These sessions focus on water conservation practices and technologies specifically for Latino farmers and ranchers.
Community Connections:
NLFR’s Field Team, which is well-connected with BIPOC underserved communities, particularly Latino and African American farmers and ranchers, is developing partnerships with local USDA/NRCS offices. The Field Team is also engaging in state extension services and local community groups to identify ‘natural leaders’ for the project.
Awareness and Engagement:
NLFR is organizing culturally attuned talks and workshops to heighten awareness of natural resource issues, particularly water conservation. These events, promoted through radio PSAs and in-person events, engage producers in practices and technologies aimed at sustainability.
Internship Program:
NLFR is funding internships for students and young professionals to gain experience in Natural Resources Management at the farm level. Interns are playing active leadership roles in implementing Training Days, working with minority farming communities, producing case studies, and immersing themselves in water conservation practices and technologies.
Access to NRCS Services:
Through language- and culturally-responsive efforts, NLFR is facilitating access to NRCS services. This involves producing farm-level Conservation Plans in collaboration with the AGUA Coordinator, Technical Field Staff, farmers, and NRCS staff.
Leadership Development:
Project AGUA is developing a team of emerging young leaders who are gaining knowledge in natural resources management and agricultural farming/ranching.
Implementation of Conservation Plans:
For farms with NRCS-designed Conservation Plans, the NLFR Project Team is working with NRCS to ensure these plans are effective tools for managing natural resources on the farms.
Project Evaluation:
The project evaluation focuses on measuring metrics, equipment utilization, training impact, project implementation, and overall progress toward goals and objectives.
Data Collection and Case Studies:
The Project Field Team is gathering data on farm-level results and creating case studies with financial analysis. These efforts aim to advocate for the adoption of ‘Climate Smart Agricultural’ practices. Findings are shared at talks, special events, and Training Days.
English 
Spanish