Sustainable Gardeners and Farmers
Sharing knowledge to sustain our food systems and communities
This group will create an open, global forum where growers can share practical knowledge with each other, pose questions and find answers. It is open to experts, amateurs and to beginners who look to enrich their lives by learning to grow food. It will also provide a space to share concerns about current food systems as well as sustainable approaches. I form ...learn more
GROUP DETAILS
Created: Dec 24, 2007
Updated: Nov 22, 2009
Membership: Open
Semi-Private
Topic: training in organic/sustainable growing?
Posts (1 - 5 of 5)
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If you go look up ATTRA's internships online, you'll find a wealth of resources and farms that train apprentices in different capacities. ATTRA stands for appropriate technology transfer in rural areas. Here's their site:
http://attra.ncat.org/ The positions vary in focus, skill set needed and pay. Some even include some land managment/restoration. As far as sustainability, there are organic, biodynamic & other systems at work within their network. Different farmers definitely have their own philosophies, so he could even do some visits before he decided to try it out. This is how I contacted a couple of farmers I have worked with in the past. It's a great resource! I took this route after college because I was ready for a hands on experience that exercised my body and mind. Hope that helps your son's process. If you have any questions related to this info or my experience, feel free to contact me. |
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There's also the option of WOOF'ing, but these experiences are often unpaid. I'm sure it's a wonderful experience, though. It depends on what he is looking for, where he is looking, etc. These opportunities can take people all over the world, and provide unique experiences, too.
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These are both great suggestions. You can also go to http://beginningfarmers.org for information on internships and apprenticeships, more formal training programs, and lots of other information and resources related to this topic.
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Hi Dana, If your son wants a four year college, the University of Michigan has a ver progressive School of Natural Resources where he can learn about Resource Management (I received my degree there) and green technologies. It is a smaller college within the University. I think of it as a great opportunity to have the newest and best with the full college life. Blessings! Jo |
Do you have advice for me? (You helped so much on the compost that my expectations are high.) My 17-year-old son is interested in pursuing this area as a career. Where should he start? Go to school? Apprenticeship? Where? Does anyone have experience in Land Use Management? Is it compatible with sustainability? Any ideas?
Many thanks!
Dana