Immigrant farmer thrives with USDA support

From struggle to success Oksana’s farming story inspires many

Oksana Bocharova, a first-generation farmer and Russian immigrant, turned her struggles into success by building a thriving farm in Maryland. Raised on her father’s farm in Russia, Oksana’s passion for agriculture led her to study agronomy and immigrate to the U.S. in 1999.

Despite facing financial hardships and personal challenges, Oksana persevered. After saving for over a decade, she secured a USDA Direct Farm Loan in 2013, purchasing a farm in Chestertown, Maryland.

Oksana produces diverse crops, including turmeric, kale, and tomatoes, while raising chickens. Inspired by her mother’s fermentation skills, she expanded into producing fermented goods. Encouraged by local support, Oksana sought funding through the USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG).

After initial setbacks, she received a $250,000 grant to grow her business, covering costs for processing and marketing her organic and fermented products. The funding helped her double her customer base and increase sales. 

Her children now contribute by managing online sales and marketing, transforming the farm into a family business. Oksana expressed her pride, saying, "This is now my retirement plan." 

Farmers can access similar opportunities through the USDA’s VAPG program under the Local Agriculture Market Program. Learn more at www.rd.usda.gov.