1st Generation Farmers
The next generation of farmers is at the center of the new food system we envision, and we believe they'll need a diverse knowledge base – from soil preparation and heavy equipment mechanics to marketing the harvest to winter production -- to succeed as entrepreneurs in the growing local food economy. Our year-round First Generation Farmer Program takes a holistic approach to farm apprenticeship, giving participants the opportunity to experience and gain training in all aspects of food systems through multiple learning methods. In the end, farmers will have the kind of complete and practical farm training they'll need to thrive with their own farm-based operations.
The apprenticeship is, at its core, a working/learning experience, geared toward giving a comprehensive, hands-on knowledge of farm life, inside and out. New apprentices in the program must choose a "major" to focus on throughout the year, but in addition to encouraging trainees to explore multiple aspects of local food systems, we challenge new farmers to focus on specific programs that most interest them.
Apprentices have the chance to learn about a range of topics, including growing and selling for market, running CSAs, planning educational farm programs, managing orchards, homesteading, and winter growing. We cover all aspects of farm production, from soil preparation to harvest, tractors to hand hoes, administration to marketing farm products. During the course of the full season, apprentices are given the information and time to learn the essential skills needed to manage a farm on their own. In return, they're expected to give their labor for the daily working of the farm.
Apprentices and managers will create a Learning Contract at the start of the season and will meet throughout the year to evaluate the apprentices' work and to ensure that expectations are mutually being met. The option for a second year apprenticeship will also be considered.