This report describes research undertaken to understand the operation of Green Hills Farm Project (GHFP), an example of a new model of locally organized, place-based farmer network organizations. The report, based primarily on open-ended interviews conducted with the group's 11 core members, documents the role of the University of Missouri in the group's activities and explores how the university can support the growth of similar networks. The first section provides a general overview of the GHFP, describing the project, its activities, and its financing. The next discusses the central processes and core dynamics of the group its goals, diversity of ideas, innovation, multiple networking, sharing, the link to the university research center, positive outlook regarding farming, consensus building, common respect and trust, and philosophy of agriculture, life, and family. The last section suggests ways in which the University of Missouri can facilitate these types of farm groups. Recommendations include: (1) identification of potential clusters of farmers and enhancement of newly formed networks; (2) involvement of university research facilities and researchers; (3) enhancing farmer network use of external networks; (4) providing seed monies for groups; (5) publicizing success stories; and (6) providing support through curriculum and training. (JLS)