Extension sets 2015 training program for new and beginning farmers

11:48 a.m., Jan. 30, 2015--The new and beginning farmer training program offered by Delaware Cooperative Extension for new and beginning farmers working in small-scale vegetable and/or fruit production has been set for 2015.

Through hands-on training, demonstrations, workshops, field trips and farm tours, as well as self-study, growers will spend an entire growing season learning with Cooperative Extension representatives and other invited agriculture industry professionals.

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Although not limited to the following topics, the training will explore the fundamentals of soil fertility and health, basic crop production, integrated pest management, food safety, marketing, business planning and development and provide an excellent networking opportunity.

The training program is scheduled for the entirety of the growing season.

In New Castle County, meetings are scheduled for the third Monday evenings of the month, from 6-8 p.m., February through May and September through November. The dates are Feb. 16, March 16, April 20, May 18, Sept. 21, Oct. 19 and Nov. 16. 

The June, July and August dates will be determined at the start of the training program based on participants’ availability.

Sessions will be held at the New Castle County Extension Office and on the University of Delaware College of Agriculture and Natural Resources campus and at cooperating farms. There will be additional evening and occasional Saturday sessions to accommodate field trips, hands-on activities and farm tours.

In Sussex County, meetings are scheduled for the fourth Monday evenings of the month, from 6-8 p.m. Dates are Feb. 23, March 23, April 27, May 19 (due to the Memorial Day holiday), Sept. 28, Oct. 26 and Nov. 23.

June, July and August dates will be determined at the start of the training program based on participants’ availability.

Sessions will be held at the Elbert N. and Ann V. Carvel Research and Education Center and cooperating farms. There will be additional evening and occasional Saturday sessions to accommodate field trips, hands-on activities and farm tours.

For more information contact Carrie Murphy at 302-831-2667 or Tracy Wootten at 302-856-7303.