Farmer Starter Program Details
Program dates:
The Spring 2020 session will go from February 4th through June 18th, 2020.
Applications for the Spring 2020 session are still being accepted for a limited time.
Student schedule:
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Students meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:30am to 4:00pm.
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Mornings are spent in the field with the Farm Manager getting valuable hands-on experience and growing food for our Mobile Markets.
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Afternoons are spent in the classroom with the Education Manager learning the science and business of farm management, or on field trips to see a variety of farming practices.
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Students spend an additional 4 to 6 hours per season with Farmshare Staff at a Mobile Market to learn the ins and outs of direct marketing and Farmers' Market sales.
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Class size: 8 students maximum.
Application process:
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Applications are reviewed by the Education Manager, who will follow up to schedule an interview and farm tour.




Tuition, room & board:
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Tuition is $3,000.
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Students have the option of living on the farm during the semester for an additional $1,500 for the 20 weeks. Accommodations include a full size bed in a loft in our Farmhouse, full kitchen and shared bath.
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Farmshare awards need-based scholarships and offers workshare programs as financial aid.
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Scholarships are also available through CCOF’s Future Organic Farmer Grant (application period is April 1- May 6th)
Skills desired:
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Applicants should have a passion for local food production and organic agriculture.
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Previous farm or garden experience is preferred but not necessary.
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Candidates must demonstrate a strong desire to learn about small-scale, sustainable agriculture.
Additional considerations:
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Students should be prepared to make a full season commitment and participate in all activities for the duration of the program.
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Students must be comfortable and capable of performing strenuous physical work in a variety of conditions.
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Students provide their own transportation to and from the farm.
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We’re sorry but we cannot accommodate pets at this time.
Contact:
Please contact Farmshare Austin with any questions about the program: