Groundswell Center for Local Food & Farming’s Announces New Farmer Training Program

For Immediate Release:

Dear Community Members, Farmers and Partners,

It is our honor to share Groundswell Center for Local Food & Farming’s new Farmer Training Program launching in the Spring 2021!  Through the dedicated time, energy and vision of Groundswell staff, community members and our Farmer Training Advisory Committee, and with funding through a USDA NIFA Beginner Farmer Rancher Development Grant, we hope to address some of the barriers that might prevent someone from entering the field of agriculture and food systems work.

Based in Ithaca, NY and on farms in the Finger Lakes/Haudenosaunee region, Groundswell’s Farmer Training Program is a 6-month 21-hour/week compensated program open to Black, Indigenous, People of Color with little to no previous farming experience.  Participants are compensated for their time at $20 an hour and transportation is provided from Ithaca to learning sites. Participants join a learning community that focuses and honors the experience of Black, Indigenous, People of Color.  The curriculum is crafted to both teach the skills necessary to work with the land, produce food and also understand the historical context of the food system. The Program aspires to foster the skills and relationships needed to build a different food system that includes the many stories, people and histories that have been stolen, left out or erased.  

Applications for the Farmer Training Program are being accepted until December 15th, 2020.  Please visit Groundswell's Website: https://groundswellcenter.org/farmer-training/ for more information and how to apply or call 607.319.5095 and contact Holly. 

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Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you!