AMES — Practical Farmers of Iowa will present a free farminar on how to get started direct-marketing meat to consumers from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on July 14.

The event — “Consumer-Friendly Bulk Meat Sales” — will take place on Zoom and will feature agriculture marketing consultant Matt LeRoux, who has nearly 20 years of experience serving farms through Cornell Cooperative Extension, non-profits and consulting.

To register or join in, visit practicalfarmers.org/farminars. If participating as a drop-in guest, click the “Join In” button and sign in as “Guest.”

COVID-19 has created a challenging situation for conventional livestock markets and processors. But the situation has also presented farmers with a unique opportunity to market meat directly to consumers.

The farminar aims to equip farmers with clear and simple steps to start making bulk meat sales, such as quarters, halves and mixed-cut bundles.

Guests will learn tips to help them get started quickly and LeRoux will explain how farmers can better understand consumer purchasing habits, meat pricing and product bundling, as well as how to reach consumers.