Sustainable Agriculture Farmer Training Program

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Frostburg Grows Farm and Training Center’s summer 2015 Sustainable Agriculture Farmer Training Program in Maryland, 2015

The Frostburg Grows Sustainable Agriculture Farmer Training Program is a 2 week, intensive program for aspiring farmers, those looking to diversify their current operations, food system advocates, undergrads, recent grads, WOOFERS, second career farmers and anyone interested in strengthening the local food movement through small business and sustainable practices. . Our program employs whole-farm systems to educate those who want to farm how to plan, prioritize and maximize land and resource with the triple bottom line- people, profit, planet- as a guiding foundation.

This course is designed as a two week intensive program offering a practical, hands-on experience in growing, animal husbandry, construction and business planning that  will enable participants to realistically and profitably start and operate a farm or agribusiness of their own. Seed to harvest, worms to cattle, hand tools to tractors and all types of farm models, aspects of operating your own business and sustainability in agriculture will be covered in this nose to tail curriculum. Participants will gain crucial knowledge in the laws, regulations and finances of farming as well as directory of resources for future use and a network of folks to exchange  ideas and resources with.

Some of the topics covered in the program include: High tunnel construction, various growing systems, season extension,plan nutrition and fertilization, rain water collection and irrigation, automation of heating/irrigation, tractor safety and operation,  diversified vegetable farming, berries, mushrooms and niche products, buying vs. leasing land, sustainable leadership, among various other totaling to more than 90 hours of learning

·         You must be 18 years or older to attend the program.

·         Program Fee is $2,475.00 (including housing and most meals)

·         Each session is 2 weeks long.

·         There are four sessions in our 2015 program.

Session 1:     May 31st- June 13th

Session 2:     June21st- July 3rd

Session 3:     July 12th – July 25th

Session 4:     August 2nd- August 15th

Further program information, costs, FAQ’s and a detailed agenda is available at FrostburgGrows.com. Applications are currently being accepted.