Black Farmers Economic Enhancement Project (BFEEP)

The goal of the Black Farmers Economic Enhancement Project (BFEEP) is to enhance and promote the contributions of agriculture and the legacy of black farmers as significant cornerstones in the foundation of the Duplin economy. This goal aligns with REACH’s organizational goal to assist Duplin County residents in achieving a higher personal, social and economic way of living, and thus, enjoying a better quality of life. As a result of this project, Duplin residents will recognize and appreciate the values of farming to the world economy and, especially, to Duplin County. Appreciation of this community asset contributes to the esteem and motivation of its residents, filling them with pride and determination to accept Duplin as an agricultural community with people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles. Not only will black farmers benefit from this project, the entire community and county will realize greater economic growth and enhancement.

1. Quarterly meetings among farmers, school personnel, and student representatives;
2. Scheduled field trips for agricultural students to designated small farms;
3. Presentations by farmers to high school agricultural classes;
4. Recruitment and hiring students for part-time farm labor as apprentices;
5. Community Education, placing special emphasis on the legacy of black owners of small farms in Duplin County.