COCKEYSVILLE, MD – The Beginner Farmer Training Program, Future Harvest CASA’s unique, year-long training program for beginning farmers, is now accepting applications for the 2016 season. The program’s goal is to equip new farmers in the Chesapeake region with the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to start a successful farm.
BFTP Class of 2015
The need for a new wave of farmers in the region has never been greater. Consumer demand for local, sustainably grown food continues to rise, but an aging farmer population (close to 60-years-old, according to the latest USDA census) is unable to meet that demand. There is a resurgence of interest in farming, but in order to make those farm dreams a reality, aspiring farmers must first learn to produce on a market-scale, employ sustainable growing techniques, determine how to sell what they grow, and get connected to resources and the larger farming community. Enter the Beginner Farmer Training Program (BFTP), now in its seventh year, which provides a comprehensive, year-long training experience designed for new farmers ready to farm.
Background:
The BFTP is unique among farmer training programs across the nation in that it allows participants to work part- or full-time at their existing farms or jobs while completing training. Participants are encouraged to transition into farming with a detailed crop and business plan in place.
Here is what some of our trainees and graduates have to say about the BFTP:
“This program was crucial in getting me started as a farmer in Baltimore. It created a community for me, where I found support, inspiration, and learning. It gave my partner the confidence to farm as well. I’m so lucky I found the program and I strongly recommend it to anyone who wants to start a farm business!”
—Laura Beth Resnick, Butterbee Farm
“The program is giving me a great opportunity to really analyze and compare the various techniques I’m learning about and fine tune my own farm plans and strategies. I also feel really good about being connected to a network of resources, farmers and other beginners like me.”
—Thelonius Cook, 2015 BFTP Trainee
“This is a well-rounded program that provides classroom knowledge, farm tours, and invaluable hands on experience. The program gives you access to many resources, ideas, and connections that you can draw on for your entire farming career.”
—Tamara Todd, Wild Peace Farm
How to Apply
The application deadline for the 2016 season is October 9, 2015. The program accepts applications from new farmers located throughout the Chesapeake region, including MD, DC, VA, WV, DE and PA. To learn more about the program, eligibility, and to complete an online application, please visit: futureharvestcasa.org/field-school/beginner-farmer-training-program. For questions, please contact Sarah Sohn, Communications and Program Manager: sarah@futureharvestcasa.org.