Farmers and ranchers who have been historically underserved by federal programs, as well as veterans and other rural landowners will gather here Thursday to learn more about how to access agricultural programs designed for them.

The Arkansas Land and Community Development Corp. will bring together representatives from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource ConservationService, Farm Service Agency, Rural Development, Strike Force and Arkansas Forestry Commission at Hempstead Hall on the University of Arkansas Hope campus beginning at 10 a.m.

Federal agency representatives will address programs that are available for socially disadvantaged and limited resource ranchers, as well as veterans and other landowners. The conference is free and lunch will be provided at no cost.

Registration information can be obtained by contacting Albert Jones at 870-734-3005.

“The conference will address farming as a susstainable and profitable bsiness relying on analysis, technology and comprehensive planning, and complete implementation of best practices in whole farm management, financial planning, conservation plans, marketing plans, risk management, market risk, production risk, financial risk, human risks and legal risks,” the conference announcement states.

Elements of community asset building, affordable housing and provisions for farm financing and rural micro business enterprises will also be addressed.

“ALCDC’s activities are geared to assure that applicable United States Department of Agriulture services are understood,” the announcement explains.

Food safety and security, farmers’ market and other niches, organic and specialty crops production and marketing, and getting into the business of farming will be discussed.