About Us
Oklahoma Farmers and Ranchers Association is an organization whose mission is to help socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers achieve a living with their farm or ranch. In addition, they also educate the public about the importance of sustainable agriculture—economic success, environmental stewardship and improved quality of life of people and communities. This education is done by giving farmers and ranchers the tools, skills and knowledge through hands on training, classes, and field days. With these trainings the farmers and ranchers are able to make their farm or ranch financially successful. The public benefits with stronger communities and access to local, high quality food products.
OFRA has been run entirely by volunteers up to 2010. In 2010, a part-time administrative position was created with some grant funding. OFRA’s office is virtual and communication is accomplished through phone and electronic means.
Mission Statement
To Provide Education and Training for underserved, socially disadvantaged family farmers and ranchers and other interested people, to improve quality of life for all.
OFRA History:
OFRA began in 2003 when four limited resource, socially disadvantaged agricultural community groups, with support and funding from Heifer International, joined together in order to purchase agricultural supplies in bulk. That plan proved unworkable very quickly; instead educational trainings became the focus of the organization. Quarterly meetings were held, each with an educational topic with either an invited speaker or discussion within the group. Various members enrolled in and completed Annie’s project training on risk management, Oklahoma State’s Master Cattleman’s Program, Langston University’s Master Goat Producer’s Program, all in preparation to help new members and anyone else interested in this type of training
Past trainings and Speakers:
OFRA meetings and workshops have included Mike Everett and Rigo Delgado, Heifer International teaching about community development and conflict resolution, Ann Wells, DVM, teaching about holistic animal health and sustainable livestock production, Ron Morrow, Phd, teaching about controlled grazing and whole farm planning, Richard McConnell and Tina Williams, teaching about stockmanship and low-stress animal handling, Ralph Harris, teaching how to install hi-tensile electric fencing, and Walt Davis, teaching about holistic resource management on farms.
Benefits of Membership
- Networking with sustainable agriculture producers
- “We’re doing what you want to do” experience
- Trainings at no additional charge
- Opportunities to learn from renowned, outside speakers and educators
- Scholarships to conferences and workshops
- Mentoring opportunities and hands-on support
- Members only section of OFRA website
- Ask a member a technical question
Sustainable livestock production workshops currently being conducted in Wilson (Okmulgee County) and Dover, OK $20 charge for non-members
