The Appraisal Foundation (TAF) President Kelly Davids shared important news and updates for appraisers by way of the organization’s November newsletter, which included the release of the Rural Appraiser Practicum Model (RAPM), a first-of-its-kind resource created by TAF.

Davids noted the generous support of Farm Credit, along with collaboration and assistance from the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA).

“For years, educators, mentors, and appraisers alike have asked: What could a practical training model for rural appraisal look like? This new practicum model offers an exciting answer,” Davids said. “It provides a structured, high-level example that outlines how hands-on, real-world assignments might be built into an educational framework. The goal is simple but powerful: to bridge classroom knowledge with applied practice and strengthen the pipeline of rural appraisers.”

The TAF president acknowledged that this project would not have been possible without the expertise and dedication of the subject matter experts who worked together to create it including Brian Field, Douglas Hodge, Michael Wilson, Troy Peters, Andy Gudajtes and Graham Smith.

“Their collective insight, drawn from both ASFMRA and Farm Credit, helped shape a resource unlike anything available before in our profession,” Davids added. “The RAPM is designed to spark conversation, invite feedback, and serve as a tool that educators and training providers can adapt to meet their own needs. We encourage you to review the model, consider how it can benefit your programs, and share your thoughts with us.

“Together, we can use this innovative framework to expand opportunities for aspiring rural appraisers and strengthen the profession as a whole,” she concluded.