Growing Food, Growing Farmers: How First-Generation Farmers In Blue Ridge Appalachia Learn How To Farm And Find Access To Farm Land

This thesis research seeks to explain changes occurring on the Blue Ridge Appalachian landscape, as first-generation small-scale diversified farmers become invested in sustainable agriculture; learn how to farm; find access to farm land, and form resilient agricultural enterprises in Blue Ridge Appalachia. This thesis documents the importance of small-scale agriculture, beginning with a literature review and then through a discussion of aspiring, beginning, and experienced farmers in Blue Ridge Appalachia. Each stage represents an important transition for the farmer. However, the importance of mentoring echoes throughout each. By seeing what others have done, the aspiring farmer becomes engaged in farming as an occupation and lifestyle. Likewise, the beginning and experienced farmer gains strategies and confidence from their mentors and peers as they seek to form a sustainable livelihood in Blue Ridge Appalachia.