Groundswell Blog: Sign Up Now for 2014 Programs

Welcome to Groundswell

Groundswell’s mission is to help youth and adult learners develop the skills and knowledge they need to build sustainable local food systems. Our focus is providing hands-on, experiential learning opportunities with real working farms and food businesses in the Ithaca area. Through collaboration with area schools, colleges and universities, Groundswell offers programs of study for beginning farmers, students, community members, and professionals.

Groundswell is an initiative of the EcoVillage Center for Sustainability Education in Ithaca, NY, which is a project of the Center for Transformative Action. Visit the Groundswell website to learn more about our programs, initiatives and resources.

Wednesday, November 27

Sign Up Now for 2014 Programs

2014 Farm Business Planning Course

Thursday nights, 6-9 PM, January 9 - March 13

This course is for serious beginning farmers who needs a plan, and for established farmers who want to improve their business skills.Ten weekly sessions cover all major aspects of the farm business start-up process, including assessing your resources; legal and regulatory issues; production planning; marketing; financial feasibility, budgets and record keeping; and more. For info and online application form, click HERE.

2014 Groundswell Incubator Farm Program

Early decision applications are due November 30, Late applications also accepted

Incubator Farmer Surik Mehrabyan
at the Incubator Farm at EcoVillage

We're looking for 2-3 more new farmers to join the Groundswell Incubator Farm in 2014! Your best chance for acceptance in the program is to apply right away. But we will accept applications until available slots are filled.

In addition to growing space, the Incubator offers access to tools, water and irrigation lines, tractor services, production and marketing infrastructure, and mentoring from experienced farmers. Space is available for livestock micro-enterprises as well as crops.

For details about the program and an online application form, click HERE. If you think the Incubator might be for you, we encourage you to give Devon Van Noble a call at 727-410-4073. He can answer your questions and help you decide whether to apply.

2014 Holistic Organic Orchard Management Course

Fourth Sundays of each month, 1-4 PM, January through October 2014 (except July)

This is a unique opportunity to learn from some of the region's most respected and innovative growers. Beginning and experienced commercial producers and serious homestead orchardists are invited to participate. For info and easy online registration form, click HERE.