Veteran Farmer Training in Arkansas

Posted on April 18, 2020 by Taylor in Beginning Farmers, Education, Farming, Training Programs, Veterans, Workshops // 0 Comments

Armed to Farm – Free Veteran Farmer Training in Arkansas

Although times are uncertain due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NCAT is moving forward with accepting applications from military veterans for the week-long Armed to Farm (ATF) training in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The training is currently scheduled for June 15-19, 2020.

The health and safety of our staff and participants is paramount. We are monitoring the COVID-19 situation and following guidance on travel, social distancing, and group gatherings. If it is not yet safe to hold the training in June we will postpone the event.

About Armed to Farm

ATF allows veterans and their spouses to experience sustainable, profitable small-scale farming enterprises and explore agriculture as a career. ATF’s engaging blend of farm tours, hands-on experience, and interactive classroom instruction gives participants a strong foundation in the basic principles of operating a sustainable farm. Participants learn about business planning, budgeting, recordkeeping, marketing, livestock production, fruit and vegetable production, and more. In addition, attendees gain a network of supportive farmer-veterans and agricultural advisors.

NCAT Sustainable Agriculture specialists will teach the training sessions. Additional contributors will include staff from USDA agencies, plus experienced crop and livestock producers.

Applications for this Veteran Farmer Training in Arkansas are available at https://www.ncat.org/atf_AR_20/ and are due by May 8, 2020.

All military veterans are welcome to apply. However, the number of participants will be limited. Spouses and farm partners are welcome as well, but must submit a separate application. NCAT will notify selected participants by May 15.

Dates, Location, and Cost of Armed to Farm Veteran Farmer Training in Arkansas

Armed to Farm will take place June 15-19, in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Participants will attend classroom sessions at the Mt. Sequoyah Center, a retreat and event center located in the heart of Fayetteville. Several local farms will provide hands-on learning experiences.

The event is free for those chosen to attend; lodging at the retreat center, transportation to local farms, and most meals will be provided. Participants must pay their own travel costs to and from the event.

Sponsors

Armed to Farm is sponsored by NCAT’s ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture program and a grant from the USDA’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development program.

Questions?

Please contact Margo Hale at margoh@ncat.org or 479-575-1383.

Since 1976, the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) has been helping people by championing small-scale, local and sustainable solutions to reduce poverty, promote healthy communities and protect natural resources. More information about its programs and services is available at www.ncat.org or by calling 1-800-ASK-NCAT.