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How should I effectively launch myself in regenerative/permaculture farming? College? Where in the workforce should I start?

I am planning to attend college/University, with an associate degree, but I do not know what is the best choice for me. I want to own a farm and run it for profit while using regenerative/ permaculture/organic, etc.

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Flora’s Answer

Even though I'm not an expert in this area, as a parent, I'd advise you to delve deeper into farming if you're truly passionate about it. You could invest your time in volunteering at a local farm that focuses on sustainable and organic practices. This could even count towards your school's volunteer hours, all while gaining knowledge from the professionals.

In the Morristown area, there's a non-profit farm called Grow it Green's Urban Farm. Another reputable non-profit organization is America's Grow-A-Row.
There are numerous non-profit organizations where you could volunteer or work during your summer break.
You could also consider seasonal work, earning a wage while you learn, such as at CSA Farming: Flocktown.

The hands-on experience will not only provide you with knowledge but will also give you a taste of what it's like to work in the field, helping you decide if it's the right path for you.

I'd recommend speaking to your school's career counselor to learn about farms across the country that offer summer internships.

If you're considering running your own farm, you'll need to learn more than just farming and agriculture skills. You'll also need to grasp basic web advertising, financial management, business administration, and accounting skills.

Best of luck on your journey!

Flora recommends the following next steps:

Grow it Green's Urban farm in Morristown, 31 Hazel Street, Morristown
America's Grow-A-Row, 150 Pittstown, Pittstown, NJ
Flocktown Farm 552 Pittstown Rd , Pittstown, NJ
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! I will look around to see what opportunities are available. Miryam
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hey there Miryam,

Plotting Your Journey in Regenerative/Permaculture Farming

Thinking about a future in regenerative or permaculture farming? It's crucial to find an educational journey that matches your aspirations. While a degree from a college or university can equip you with useful insights and abilities, it's key to pick a course that includes relevant subjects like sustainable agriculture, regenerative farming techniques, permaculture design, and organic farming methods. Keep an eye out for programs that balance theoretical learning with practical training and hands-on experiences.

College Courses

Many colleges and universities have designed programs specifically for sustainable agriculture, regenerative farming, and permaculture. These courses often cover topics like soil health, agroecology, sustainable crop cultivation, organic farming methods, and comprehensive land management. Plus, some institutions might offer specialized courses or majors in sustainable agriculture or agroecology within their agricultural science departments.

Try to find programs that offer opportunities for internships or cooperative education experiences on operational farms. These real-world experiences can be priceless in gaining a deep understanding of regenerative farming practices and making connections in the field.

Stepping into the Workforce

Once you've completed your education, there are several ways to step into the workforce that can offer valuable experience and insights into regenerative/permaculture farming:

Farm Apprenticeships: Serving as an apprentice on a regenerative farm can provide hands-on learning experiences and guidance from seasoned farmers. Seek out farms that value regenerative practices and are open to taking on apprentices.

Nonprofit Organizations: There are nonprofits that concentrate on sustainable agriculture and may have positions or internships related to regenerative farming initiatives. This could be a way to gain experience while making a difference in the field.

Local Farms and Community Gardens: Participating in local farms or community gardens that follow regenerative or permaculture principles can offer practical experience and networking opportunities within the sustainable agriculture community.

In a Nutshell

To sum it up, pursuing a college education focused on sustainable agriculture, regenerative farming, permaculture, or related fields can lay a solid groundwork for a career in this sector. Aim for programs that offer relevant subjects and practical experiences, and think about gaining hands-on experience through farm apprenticeships, nonprofit work, or involvement with local farms and community initiatives.

Top 3 Reliable Reference Publications/Domain Names:

Rodale Institute: A top-notch source of research and information on regenerative organic agriculture.
Permaculture Research Institute: Provides a wealth of resources on permaculture design and practices.
Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE): Offers extensive information on sustainable agriculture practices and educational resources for farmers.
These sources were used to compile information on regenerative/permaculture farming practices, educational opportunities, and career pathways within the industry.

Take care and God Bless,
James.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! I will look more into the 3 reliable references and see what more there is. Miryam
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