farmer training program - oregon
FarmsNOW is an advanced program for aspiring farmers with a minimum of two years prior experience. FarmsNOW is designed for those seeking mastery in the art and business of farming. This two-year program will dig deep into planning, designing and running integrated farming systems. Intern candidates must have 2-3 years of prior vegetable production experience, a deep commitment to learning, a willingness to commit two years to the program, and strong farm references. Spanish language skills are highly recommended. A personal visit and interview with Blue Fox Farm is required.
FarmsNOW offers students the opportunity to gain confidence and mastery in the following farm tasks:
Year one:
- Harvest/wholesale harvest (GAP)
- Wash & pack process
- Direct marketing – running a farmers’ market
- Planting & fieldwork
- Deliveries
- Food safety/record keeping
- Irrigation systems
- Equipment maintenance
- Crop tracking – seeding, planting
- Field walks/crop observation
- Certifications
- Time management
Year two:
- Farm crew coordination
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Decision-making
- Crop planning
- Certifications – GAP, Organic
- Fertility management
- Sales coordination
- Tools & equipment
More information can be found here:
http://roguefarmcorps.org/?page_id=1613