With socially disadvantaged farmers losing their farms, the initial focus of the group was to assist black farmers who participated in the class action lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). At this meeting, it became apparent that there were many other problems facing the socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers and forest landowners. Months later, a formal meeting was announc
ed and a tremendous response was received with several hundred people attending. Because of this response, the decision was made to establish an organization to effectively address the needs of socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers and forest landowners in addition to the needs of rural communities. The organization has expanded its scope to include many aspects of farm management techniques. The overall objective is to elevate and enhance socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in their business practices, granting them opportunities to successfully (1) compete in today's agricultural environment, (2) contribute to the U.S. economy, and (3) participate in the global marketplace. With memberships being established around the country, United Farmers USA will serve as the key source for socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners by providing a variety of assistance programs which include Farm Management, Business Management, Financial Management, and Co-Operative Marketing.
