Cultivating New Farmers

(Page 2 of 5)

February/March 2007
By Jean English 
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Another popular choice for those interested in sustainable agriculture is Washington State University. It has a solid record of research in organic methods and offers a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and food systems, including a major in organic agriculture systems, which was the first such program in the nation. The program requires an internship and a summer practicum at WSU’s organic farm. Elsewhere, the University of New Hampshire runs an organic dairy farm; Colorado State University offers an interdisciplinary studies program in organic agriculture for food and fiber production; the University of Florida offers a degree in organic agriculture; and Michigan State plans to offer one this year.

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Community colleges with two-year degree programs are another option to consider. Central Carolina Community College has a hands-on Associate of Arts degree in sustainable agriculture — tempting for the practical curriculum and for the price tag of $600 a semester for North Carolina residents. Many other community colleges offer classes in organic and sustainable agriculture, if not specific programs. A few include Yuba Community College in Marysville, Calif.; Lansing Community College in Lansing, Mich.; and Maui Community College in Kahului, Hawaii.

Andrew Marshall, educational programs director for the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), notes that many established college programs train academics and researchers more than farmers, while some community colleges offer more practical experience. “In terms of skills training for the money, community colleges are great,” Marshall says.

Traditional liberal arts colleges are also developing programs to train farmers. A few of the leaders are Hampshire College in Amherst, Mass., and the University of California, Davis.

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