Growing New Growers
May 25, 2011 Organic farming is one of the fastest growing sectors in agriculture. And, according to new research from the Perishables Group, organic produce is continuing to gain ground. Organic packaged salads, berries, and tomatoes were just some of the items that have seen significant sales growth over the past five years.
With demand for organic produce remaining strong, young growers with knowledge of organic production principles are undoubtedly in high demand, too.
A new program in California aims to foster just such young growers. The state’s Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS), a division of the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) is partnering with the College of Marin and Fresh Run Farm, a small, organic operation in Bolinas, to offer students access to an organic farming apprenticeship program — the first of its kind.
Creating Opportunities
Krisann Chasarik, communications specialist for the California DIR, says the idea for the program came about when former DIR director John Duncan was touring Fresh Run Farm, meeting with the farm’s owner and operator Peter Martinelli, to discuss labor issues and the future of California’s sustainable ag industry. “That’s when Duncan and Martinelli agreed to work together to help create the Organic Farming and Gardening Apprenticeship Program,” says Chasarik.
The ultimate goal is to support and expand the sustainable agriculture industry in the state by developing the next generation of well-trained, highly skilled organic growers. “Many of us make the claim that our most important crops are new organic farmers, and this program is a really great way to stand behind that claim,” says Martinelli. “There are so many younger people today looking for these opportunities, and it is important that we provide them with a clear, legitimate path to entering the industry.”
The Training
The program is designed so students can earn money while learning about all aspects of running an organic farming business. Chasarik says apprenticeships are created for people just entering the workforce, or those looking for a career change.
Students will receive 1,800 hours of hands-on paid training at Fresh Run Farm, in addition to 10 instructional courses. They will learn the ins and outs of plant propagation, perennial crop management, soil preparation and management, water management, composting and fertility management, harvesting and packing, as well as marketing, record-keeping, and certifications.
So far, two students are enrolled in the program, and the College of Marin projects between six and 24 students will join in the second year. “There is a strong demand from students, but the farm can only accommodate a certain number of apprentices,” Chasarik says. But, she adds, other colleges and organic growers are expressing interest in creating their own apprenticeship opportunities. Ultimately, Chasarik says, this program will be used as a template for other organic
apprenticeship opportunities not just in the state of California, but throughout the whole country. “This is only the beginning,” she says.