another great farm training program
hat they’ve learned. We also strive to select a diverse group of participants. To be considered in our first round of applicants—apply bySeptember 15th! To be part of our second round of applicants (if space allows) - apply by December 1st. Calypso's Farmer Training Program is an intensive experiential education program focused on providing the skills, inspiration and experience necessary for participants to embark on starting their own small farm with confidence.
Participants learn how to become self-reliant farmers by working alongside experienced farmers through the entire growing season from caring for greenhouse transplants, prepping the field for planting, planting, seeding, harvesting, managing soil fertility, weed and pest management, caring for farm animals, operating a CSA, running a farm stand, selling to local restaurants, working in natural alignment to prevent injury and more. Guided training in art and craft skills such as wood carving, basic tool making, papermaking, metal working, wool processing, etc is also provided.
See some photos from the year 2013 here!
Calypso's unique setting also provides exposure to and experience with farm-based environmental education, organizing and running community events and a variety of practical homesteading skills (building, cooking, baking in a wood-fired oven, working with wool, metal-smithing, woodworking, birch bark weaving and more!).
This training program immerses you in farming and therefore the majority of the training is experiential and field and farm based. However, the program also includes topical workshops, a season-long creative farm business planning project, discussion groups, visits to other farms and involvement in farm-based youth education.
The program is tailored to each participant's needs by allowing the opportunity to take on increasing responsibility in core areas and in areas of special interest.