Area farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs are invited to participate in a practical, applied business training class beginning Thursday in Coquille.

The training is to provide family farms and other innovative agricultural enterprises with competitive business management tools, helping to ensure that farming remains a viable, regional industry.

The class consists of 10 sessions over an 11-week period through April 7. The sessions will cover a variety of topics, such as financial management, business planning, legal and estate issues, and product development and marketing.

Tuition is $99; however, tuition will be fully refunded to individuals who successfully complete the courses. ShoreBank Enterprises Pacific, a nonprofit community development corporation in Coos Bay, has teamed with Southwestern Oregon Community College's Business Development Center to bring this program to the South Coast. For more information, call Nathan at 266-9945, or e-mail nsandwick@sbpac.com.