2017 Farmer Training Program in Alaska

Posted on October 30, 2016 by Taylor in Beginning Farmers, Education, Management, Mentoring, Training Programs // 0 Comments

Calypso Farm and Ecology Center 2017 Farmer Training Program – Fairbanks, Alaska

The 2017 Farmer Training Program at Calypso Farm and Ecology Center is an intensive experiential education program focused on providing the skills, inspiration and experience necessary for participants to embark on starting their own small farm with confidence. A small group (3-6 people) of aspiring farmers participate in the program each year — allowing for a high level of personalized attention.

Participants learn how to become self-reliant farmers by being immersed in the farm operations—from caring for greenhouse transplants and preparing the field for planting, to caring for farm animals, and more. Additionally, participants are introduced to a variety of topics related to becoming a self-sufficient farmer, including: mechanics, construction, graphic design, carving, wool processing, hand and machine sewing, and more. Additionally, each participant completes a detailed farm business plan by the end of the season.

Calypso’s unique setting also provides exposure to and experience with farm-based environmental education, organizing and running community events and a wide range of prac.tical homesteading skills (building, cooking, baking in a wood-fired oven, fiber arts, metal-smithing, woodworking, wild crafting, food preservation and more!).

For the 2017 season, Calypso is able to offer a special Beginning Farmer’s Bonus, in which any participant who completes the entire program (including completing their whole farm plan) will be eligible for an end of the season payment of up to 50% of the program cost (not including materials). We are excited to be able to offer these funds in support of new farmers!

College Credit Option: Students can choose to take this class for credit through the University of Alaska, Fairbanks.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2017 FARMER TRAINING PROGRAM NOW!

For full program information and application guidelines: click here https://www.calypsofarm.org/education/calypsos-farmer-training-program/

Or visit www.calypsofarm.org, click on education and then farmer training program