Calypso Farm & Ecology Center (Fairbanks, AK) is now recruiting applications for their 2018 Farmer Training Program, a 5-month immersive residential programs. The Program runs from May 7th to September 29th, 2018  and is designed to equip participants to become self-reliant farmers through immersion in all aspects of farm operations, working alongside experienced farmers for an entire Alaskan growing season. Calypso’s unique setting also provides exposure and experience with farm-based environmental education, community events, and a range of homesteading skills. The following is just a selection of the skills covered over the season:

• Seeding and caring for greenhouse transplants
• Prepping the field for planting
• Planting and direct seeding
• Managing soil fertility
• Weed and pest management
• Caring for farm animals
• Harvesting
• Operating a CSA
• Running a farm stand and selling to local restaurants
• Working safely, using Natural Balance
• Whole Farm Business Planning
• Blacksmithing & Wood Carving
• Building
• Wool Processing
• Tool Making and Maintenance

This program is particularly good for beginning farmers as it includes a 'Beginning Farmer’s Bonus'. Any participant who completes the entire program (including completing their whole farm plan) will be eligible for a bonus payment after completion of the program, intended to support any future farming plans. Farmer Bonus’s are based on need as well as program participation.
Students can choose to take this program as a 6 credit course through the University of Alaska, Fairbanks.