December 16, 2024
The initiative will hold seven monthly workshops on an HBCU campus to train the next generation of smallholder farmers.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has invited aspiring farmers to join its latest training program.The HBCU will begin its Beginning Farmer Class in February 2025.
The initiative will hold seven monthly workshops at the HBCU’s campus farm to train the next generation of smallholder farmers.
Program Director Dr. Henry English revealed more about the lessons students will take in the comprehensive curriculum.
“Participants will learn about vegetable transplanting, germinating seeds, potting containers and carriers, calibrating sprayers and planters, soil fertility and compaction tests, estimating forage and crop yields and much more,” said the director. reports HBCU Buzz.
The class is part of the Small Farm Program’s approach to addressing systemic barriers to agribusiness his websiteit aims to support socially disadvantaged and resource-limited producers.The training itself is a key initiative of the program as it provides comprehensive support.
The course modules also include sessions ranging from business planning to soil and pest management.It is hoped that it will be a fast-paced course that, upon completion, will equip students as they begin their farming journeys.
In addition, it will detail USDA and Cooperative Extension Service resources to help developing farmers.The group will also go on farm field trips during the seventh month, where they will gain hands-on knowledge and experience using agricultural machinery.
The initiative also aims to help participants get their farms up and running by the end of the programme. In addition, they will receive guidance in setting up customized farm businesses conservation plans.
In terms of their financial support, graduates will also receive a one-year farm management loan.
Recruitment is still ongoing, and those interested are encouraged to apply to the Small Farmers Program.
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