Agenda - 06-25-2001 - 9b - Laserfiche WebLink

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C3187-6/01 AGRICULTURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST 30 GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK: Performs difficult professional work planning and coordinating agricultural economic development activities in the County; does related work as required. Work is performed under general supervision. TYPICAL TASKS: Conducts outreach efforts in both rural and urban areas regarding programs that build local agricultural markets, including efforts to promote community supported agricultural and farm tours; Identifies new markets for diversified and value-added agricultural products; Conducts inventory of existing farming operations in Orange County in conjunction with staff from Cooperative Extension and Environment and Resource Conservation; Conducts door-to-door surveys to identify crops and farmers interested in participating in an Agricultural Resource Guide; Develops an Agricultural Resource Guide that will detail farm operations and products; Works with County staff to provide GIS mapping of agricultural parcels and products; Meets with local institutions (i.e. UNC-Chapel Hill and school systems) to develop agreements for these agencies to purchase local agricultural products; Works with individual farmers to develop business plans, retirement and estate plans, explore brokering products to local markets, and discuss diversification possibilities, including financing options; Collaborates with existing farm organizations such as Grange, Cattleman's association, and others to share information on resources available for business planning and for brokering products; Works with North Carolina Grange and serves as resource for matching young farmers interested in beginning operations and older farmers preparing to retire; Performs related tasks as required. KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of modern principles and practices of agricultural economic development; general knowledge of the principles and practices of business; general knowledge of research techniques, statistical applications; ability to communicate ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County officials, employees, other public and private organizations and the general public; ability to develop sound business plans; general knowledge of GIS software; EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in business, economics, marketing, agriculture or related field and at least 2 years professional experience in agriculture, marketing, finance, or related field.